In Moldova, a small autonomous region in southern Moldova is experiencing cash-for-votes flows from Russia. The region, Gagauzia, has strong pro-Russian views and Kremlin-led narratives. The regional governor Evghenia Gutul has been charged with channelling funds to political parties, an offence.
The anti-corruption prosecutor clarifies that using donations for social spending is not a crime. However, the situation raises concerns about election integrity in Moldova's presidential ballot on Sunday. Presidential candidate Maia Sandu urges voters to "put our country out of harm's way" and prevent opponents from derailing Moldova from its European path.