Moldovans vote in very important parliamentary elections

(Patria) - Moldovans vote today in parliamentary elections that could have a major impact on the government's aspirations to join the European Union, as a popular pro-Russian group seeks to steer the small nation away from closer ties with the bloc, Reuters reports.

If neither side wins a majority in the 101-seat house, political horse-trading is likely to follow, further unsettling one of Europe's poorest countries, hit by the war in neighbouring Ukraine and suspected Russian interference in politics and religion.

For a government seeking EU membership, control of parliament is vital for the long-term legislative efforts required.

But power in the former Soviet republic has swung between pro-European and pro-Russian groups for decades. About a third of the country - Transnistria, east of the Dniester River - is controlled by a separatist pro-Russian administration and hosts a small Russian garrison.

Moldovan government warns of Russian interference President Maia Sandu presents the elections as an existential test for the country of 2.4 million people, which also has close cultural and linguistic ties with its western neighbour Romania, and says an extensive Russian campaign to influence voters is a direct threat.

"If Russia gains control of Moldova, the consequences will be immediate and dangerous for our country and for the entire region," Sandu said in an address last Monday.

Polls show her Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) could struggle to retain its majority.

Opposition forces such as the pro-Russian Patriotic Bloc have capitalised on voter unease over economic turmoil and the slow pace of reforms, with discontent exacerbated by what officials say is widespread disinformation.

In recent weeks, authorities have launched hundreds of raids targeting illegal party financing and alleged Russian networks aimed at stirring unrest over the vote.

On Friday, the Electoral Commission banned the Heart of Moldova, part of the Patriotic Bloc, from participating in the elections while it is investigated for illegal financing. Moscow has denied interference and claims the PAS-controlled government is spreading anti-Russian hysteria to win votes.

Sandu and PAS have presented European integration as key to Moldova's future and escaping Moscow's influence, its Soviet-era ruler.

However, many voters appear more focused on domestic issues, wary of what closer ties with the European Union could mean for Moldova's predominantly agricultural economy. Regional income disparities have contributed to uncertainty.

If it loses its majority, PAS will be forced to seek coalition partners among opponents such as the centre-left Alternative Bloc or the populist Our Party, if it enters parliament.

Recent polls indicate a tight race. Earlier in September, one poll showed PAS falling to second place for the first time with 34.7% support, behind the Patriotic Bloc with 36%, including socialists and communists.

But the large diaspora could have a decisive impact. Voters abroad are not reflected in poll data, but they usually tend to support pro-European parties.