The showdown is approaching: on September 28, 2025, Moldova will elect a new parliament. But this election campaign feels more like a political thriller – with oligarchs in exile, secret money flows, and Moscow’s influence reaching into every last village community.

The Sandu Party against the old guard

At the forefront is President Maia Sandu’s pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS). Its motto: EU, reforms, clean politics. But opponents are rapidly forming. First and foremost is the Patriotic Bloc – an alliance of old acquaintances such as former President Igor Dodon, former communist Vladimir Voronin, and Irina Vlah, the former head of Gagauzia. Officially: “neutrality.” Unofficially: clear ties to Moscow.

The “Alternative” and other outsiders

The alternative is no less colorful: Mayor Ion Ceban, former Prime Minister Ion Chicu, and political strategist Mark Tkachuk want to channel voters’ frustration. But internally, egos are already clashing. Also in the race: Victoria Furtună and her “Greater Moldova” party. Populist, contradictory – and repeatedly in the headlines with alleged connections to scandal-ridden oligarch Ilan Shor.

The oligarch in exile

All of Moldova is talking about Ilan Shor. Convicted of the “theft of the century” – billions that disappeared from banks – he lives abroad, well protected in Russia’s sphere of influence. From there, according to authorities, he continues to finance campaigns and pull strings behind the scenes. His confidante, Gagauzia leader Evghenia Guțul, recently received a penalty: secretly receiving millions from Russia for politics.

The exotic bird in a designer suit

And then there is the NOI party with its leading candidate Dmitri Torner. Officially, Torner has been living in Austria for a long time – and in luxury: expensive cars, designer suits, posh restaurants. While he presents himself there as a self-made millionaire, he wants to be the voice of the “little man” in Moldova. Critics see him as a flamboyant character with no grounding in reality, offering more show than substance. Who really stands behind him and how his lifestyle is financed remains his well-kept secret.

Moscow gets involved

And this is where the big stage comes in: Russia’s long arm. The Kremlin is trying to push pro-Russian parties to the forefront via social media, church channels, fake news, and suitcases full of cash. Gagauzia and Transnistria are considered Moscow’s bridgeheads in the country. The West warns that this election could decide Moldova’s future – Europe or Moscow.

The finale

The PAS hopes to retain its majority. But with the new patriotic bloc, Shor’s shadow empire, Dorner in his designer suit, and the constant propaganda from Russia, it faces a bitter election campaign. One thing is clear: in September, Moldova will not only be voting on politics – but on the direction of an entire country.

Credits: APA