Tue Nov 12 13:25:32 UTC 2024: ## Moldova Accuses Russia of Election Interference and Drone Flights
**Chisinau, Moldova** – The Moldovan government has accused Russia of interfering in its recent presidential election and referendum on joining the European Union, and has condemned the unauthorized flight of drones over its territory.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Moldovan foreign ministry said it handed a “note of firm protest” to Russian ambassador Oleg Ozerov, accusing Russia of “illegal and deliberate interference” in the elections.
The ministry claims Russia attempted to influence the vote through various means, including organizing ineligible voting, bribery, and security threats. They also allege Russia sought to delegitimize the democratic process and affect the election results.
Moscow denies any involvement in the election, which was narrowly won by pro-Western President Maia Sandu, aided by votes from Moldovans living abroad. Moldova also voted in favor of including a clause in its constitution defining EU membership as a goal.
The Moldovan foreign ministry also condemned the incursion of two Russian drones into its airspace on Sunday. The ministry insists it has “clear information” indicating the drones were launched by Russia.
Ambassador Ozerov, while denying being summoned by the ministry, said the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss “acute and complex bilateral relations.” He refuted claims that the drones were Russian, stating Moscow does not fly drones over countries bordering Ukraine.
Moldova, a former Soviet republic, has seen its relations with Russia deteriorate in recent years as it shifts its focus toward the West. The European Union and the United States have supported Moldova’s accusations of Russian interference.
Following the drone incident, two suspected Russian “decoy” drones were found crashed in villages, prompting concerns over potential threats to civilian safety.
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