Sandu's win marks a pivotal moment in a decades-long struggle between Russia and the EU over Moldova's geopolitical alignment. She will serve as president for all Moldovans, irrespective of their voting choice, who, despite Moscow's massive interference in the vote through vote-buying and intimidation, thwarted Russia's attempt to undermine the country's democratic institutions and showed that nothing can stand in the way of the people's power when they speak through their vote.

Claims of Stoianoglo being pro-Kremlin and Russia's election interference in Moldova is highly exaggerated. Sunday's results point to Moldova's deep polarisation. While the country's urban areas favor EU membership, rural areas oppose joining the bloc. Instead of looking out for the interests of ordinary Moldovans and resetting relations with Moscow, she used divisive politics and embraced the West to remain in power. Sandu's victory wouldn't ease geopolitical tensions but amplify it.