Moldova election: Pro-Western PAS secures win as US condemns Russian 'interference'
The US embassy in Chișinău praised Moldovan citizens' participation in the 28 September election, stating it "looks forward to cooperating on issues of common interest" with the new parliament.
"We highly appreciate the participation of citizens of the Republic of Moldova in the parliamentary elections. Congratulations to the pro-Western Action and Solidarity Party (PAS) and all parties that have surpassed the threshold for parliamentary representation," the US embassy said in a statement posted on Facebook and X.
We commend the Moldovan people for their participation in parliamentary elections. Congratulations to the Party of Action and Solidarity and all parties that passed the threshold for representation in Parliament. We look forward to working with the next government on issues of… pic.twitter.com/xxfVQc7PSP
— U.S. Embassy Moldova (@USembMoldova) September 29, 2025
The International Republican Institute (IRI), an American non-governmental organisation (NGO) that monitored the vote, unconditionally condemned Russia's attempts to influence the electoral process in Moldova, according to the US-funded Radio Free Europe (RFE).
Stephen B. Nix, IRI's Director for Europe and Eurasia, stated that despite progress, R. Moldova continues to face challenges from forces seeking to weaken the state. The challenges and interference are "rooted in Russia" and are fuelling "unprecedented political violence" and "persistent threats to destabilise" the country's situation, Mr Nix added.
"IRI unconditionally condemns Russia's attempts to influence the electoral process in R. Moldova, as well as attempts to interfere in the activity of state institutions. These actions strike directly at the core values of democracy," Mr Nix noted.
American experts note that R. Moldova's progress on democracy remains "real, but, at the same time, fragile." IRI observers generally praised the country for the organisation of the 28 September parliamentary elections.
Frank LaRose, Secretary of State of Ohio, says that Moldovan electoral authorities ensured "a normal electoral process," and voters, including those in the diaspora, demonstrated "a massive turnout." Although some shortcomings were also observed, "the electoral process was professionally organised," Mr LaRose summarised, as quoted by RFE.
American observers recommend that Moldovan authorities step up measures to deter "malicious foreign interference" and "illicit financing," and strengthen the judicial system to punish those responsible for the challenges. Other recommendations include ensuring the accuracy of electoral lists, especially those for the diaspora; expanding mail-in voting; and improving audiovisual legislation to eliminate ambiguities and protect freedom of expression.
International observers: Moldova’s parliamentary election marked by interference and disinformation
The final preliminary results of the 28 September parliamentary elections indicate that five parties will enter the new parliament. The Central Election Commission (CEC) has finalised the count, confirming the pro-Western PAS exceeded the 50% vote threshold.
PAS won 50.20% of the vote (792,557), followed by the 'Patriotic' Bloc at 24.17% (381,505 votes). The 'Alternative' Electoral Bloc obtained 7.96% (125,685), 'Our Party' 6.20% (97,852), and the 'Democracy at Home' Party 5.62% (88,679).
Commenting on the election results, international political leaders highlighted their firm support for the continuation of R. Moldova's European and democratic course.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
