Moldova Leader Set for First-Round Win, EU Vote Risks Rebuff

Referendum, presidential vote may determine country’s EU aims
Pro-EU President Sandu is likely to advance to Nov. 3 runoff

A voter casts a ballot for the presidential election and referendum on joining the European Union at a polling station in Bulboaca, Moldova, on Oct. 20. — A voter casts a ballot for the presidential election and referendum on joining the European Union at a polling station in Bulboaca, Moldova, on Oct. 20.
Photographer: Daniel Mihailescu/AFP/Getty Images

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By Lina Grau and Andra Timu

October 20, 2024 at 10:34 AM EDT

Updated on

October 21, 2024 at 12:57 AM EDT

Moldovan President Maia Sandu was on track to win the first round of Sunday’s elections, but a key referendum on joining the European Union remained too close to call in a sign of challenges the country will face in prying itself from Russia’s grip.

Sandu secured about 42% support, the most among a group of 11 contenders, according to preliminary results from the Central Electoral Commission in the capital Chisinau. Alexandr Stoianoglo, a pro-Russian candidate and former prosecutor, came in second with about 26%. The runoff is set for Nov. 3.