Moldova Accuses Russia of Bribing Its Citizens to Vote Against Joining the EU

Moldovan officials have accused Moscow creating a network to distribute cash ahead of the country’s crucial presidential elections and a referendum on joining the European Union, set for October 20, top Moldovan officials reported Politico on October 3.

According to Viorel Cernăuțeanu, Moldova’s chief of police, the network aims to sway voters against closer ties with the West. Authorities claim a pro-Russian oligarch, Ilan Shor, is central to the scheme, which is designed to influence the upcoming elections by paying citizens to vote against pro-European Union policies and President Maia Sandu, who is seeking reelection.

“Moldova is facing a phenomenon of voter bribery, combined with hybrid warfare and disinformation, the likes of which our country has never seen before,” said Cernăuțeanu. He revealed that over Russia transferred over $15 million into the accounts of more than 130,000 Moldovans in the past month.

Investigators say Ilan Shor, founder of a now-banned pro-Russian political party, laundered the funds through a network of banks, with the help of Russian coordinators. The money is allegedly distributed via the messaging platform Telegram to mobilize local activists and officials to sway public opinion.

Shor and his allies are reportedly campaigning for voters to oppose Moldova’s EU accession and to vote against President Sandu in the simultaneous election. Despite his party being declared unconstitutional and banned last year, Shor remains influential in pro-Russian opposition circles.

Earlier, Former Moldovan General Staff chief faced treason charges linked to Russian espionage.