Moldovan elections could pave way for pro-russian forces - political scientist Reiterovych

On September 28, Moldova will hold parliamentary elections that could be decisive for the country's future course. Political scientist Ihor Reiterovych wrote about this in his Telegram channel, the website podrobnosti.ua reports.

According to an iData poll from September 8 (excluding diaspora votes), President Maia Sandu's party has the support of 24.3% of respondents, while the leader is Igor Dodon's pro-russian Patriotic Bloc with 25.2%.

According to Reiterovych, there are several factors that could affect the voting results.

First, the current government has concluded one of the most unprofitable contracts with Gazprom. High gas prices have caused an increase in tariffs and discontent among the population, which could lead to a social explosion.

Secondly, after the banning of the pro-russian Pobeda bloc of Ilan Shor, his electorate shifted to Dodon's Patriotic Bloc, which, despite numerous accusations, no one is going to ban.

Thirdly, the democratic forces are losing support due to Sandu's failed policy towards Transnistria. Smuggling is flourishing in the region, local leaders travel to Moscow without hindrance, and EU financial assistance for gas has actually supported the separatist enclave.

The expert emphasized that even if Sandu's party wins, it will be difficult for it to form a parliamentary coalition without compromising with pro-russian forces. This, according to Reiterovych, could ultimately turn Moldova into a "gray zone" with no prospects for a European future.

For Ukraine, such a scenario means increasing Moscow's influence in Chisinau and the need to deal not only with Transnistria, but also with the pro-russian government of the neighboring state.