BERLIN

France, Germany, and Poland issued a joint statement on Monday, praising Moldova for conducting democratic elections despite "unprecedented interference" from Russia.

"We congratulate the people of the Republic of Moldova for their commitment to democracy at a pivotal crossroads,” said French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in their statement.

“We commend the Moldovan society and authorities for the peaceful conduct of the election, despite unprecedented interference by Russia, including with vote-buying schemes and disinformation," the leaders stressed.

“These hybrid attempts have sought to undermine the country's democratic institutions and its EU path. However, despite various forms of manipulative interference to destabilize the country, Moldovan voters have shown once again that they will not allow their future in peace and freedom to be taken away from them.”

The leaders reaffirmed their support for Moldova's EU membership bid and committed to providing continued political and economic assistance throughout this process.

“We are committed to continue supporting Moldova’s democratic development, reforms and economic growth, as well as strengthening Moldova’s resilience, in particular on its path towards the European Union. The EU and Moldova share a common future,” they declared.

Preliminary results announced Monday by Moldova's Central Election Commission showed President Maia Sandu's ruling Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) won 50% of the vote. The pro-European party, which has held a majority since 2021, is expected to secure around 55 seats in the 101-seat parliament. According to these results, the pro-Russian Patriotic Bloc, led by former President Igor Dodon, received 24% of the vote, while the Alternative bloc, led by Chisinau Mayor Ion Ceban, received 7%.