
From Our Own Correspondent
Is Russia meddling in Moldova?
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Moldova's unexpected referendum results highlight significant Russian interference aimed at undermining pro-European sentiments and influence elections.
- Cuba's recent nationwide blackout underscores chronic electrical system failures and the impact of domestic mismanagement on citizens' daily lives.
Deep dives
Moldova's EU Referendum and Russian Interference
A recent referendum in Moldova saw a narrow victory for plans to enshrine EU membership in the constitution, surprising many after polls indicated a clear win for pro-Russian sentiments. The Moldovan government and EU officials attributed the unexpected results to significant Russian interference, including financial schemes designed to sway voters. Authorities uncovered a plan where funds were funneled from a fugitive Moldovan businessman in Russia to bribe voters against the pro-Europe agenda, suggesting that nearly 130,000 voters might have been compromised. This electoral struggle comes as Moldova's pro-European president, Maya Sandu, faces a run-off election amid increased Russian presence and influence in the region, particularly from the breakaway state of Transnistria.