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Snapshot 5:Tue, Oct 22, 2024 12:25:59 AM GMT last edited by NickBurk

Moldova Narrowly Backs Joining EU Amid Foreign Interference Claims

Moldova Narrowly Backs Joining EU Amid Foreign Interference Claims

Above: Voters cast ballots for the Moldovan presidential election and referendum on joining the EU in Chisinau on Oct. 20, 2024. Image copyright: Daniel Mihailescu/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images

The Facts

  • With nearly all votes counted, electoral authorities in Moldova on Monday said a slim majority of the nation backed a path toward EU membership — with 50.39% voters in favor and 49.61% against.However, the non-binding referendum in the nation of 2.5M people — which has emerged as a battleground for Russian and Western influence — was beset by allegations of foreign interference on both sides.

  • However, the non-binding referendum in the nation of 2.5M people — which has emerged as a battleground for Russian and Western influence — was beset by allegations of foreign interference on both sides.Moldova, which was formerly part of the Soviet Union until its collapse in 1990, gained its independence but became embroiled in a two-year civil war with Russian-speaking residents of Transnistria. Following a settlement, that area seceded from Moldova and has remained under the control of Russian forces.


The Spin

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