Moscow – Sputnik. In an article for Sputnik titled ‘Moldova at a Crossroads,’ Shoigu wrote, ‘Russia will accept any choice of the Moldovan people, but this choice must be a genuine and sincere expression of the will, to which the phrase “You won the elections, and I won the count” is attributed.’ Shoigu questioned, asking, ‘Will zero be able to implement their scenario, or will the citizens of Moldova choose economic growth, neutrality, and peaceful development for their independent state? The results of the vote in September will show this.’
Next September, Moldova will hold general parliamentary elections. Last November, the republic witnessed the second round of presidential elections in which Maia Sandu won. Sandu, who holds Romanian citizenship and passionately promotes joining the European Union, frequently accuses the national opposition of loyalty to Russia.
On this wave, several parties were banned, dozens of activists were arrested, 15 television channels were suspended without trial, and over 50 media outlets that gave the opposition a voice were shut down.
