Pro-EU incumbent Maia Sandu re-elected to second term as president of Moldova

Moldova's pro-Western incumbent president Maia Sandu has won a second term in a pivotal presidential runoff against a Russia-friendly opponent, in a race overshadowed by claims of Russian interference, voter fraud and intimidation.

With more than 99% of votes counted in the second round, Sandu had 55.03% of the vote, according to the Central Electoral Commission.

Her competitor, the former prosecutor general Alexandr Stoianoglo, was polling at just under 45%.

Speaking at the headquarters of her Action and Solidarity party in the capital Chișinău, Sandu struck a conciliatory tone and said she had listened to those who had voted both for and against her, adding that her priority in the coming years would be to be a president for all Moldovans.