Moldova, Georgia elections to define place in Europe, top EU envoy says

The upcoming presidential elections in Moldova and parliamentary elections in Georgia are set to be pivotal for their European aspirations, stated Josep Borrell, the European Union’s (EU) top diplomat. Speaking at a news conference after a meeting of EU foreign ministers, he highlighted that Russia is making significant efforts to undermine the electoral processes in both nations.

Despite facing increasing intimidation from Russia, Moldova continues to make notable progress toward European Union integration. 

Borrell said that “we see Russia spares no effort to subvert the electoral process through hybrid attacks and widespread illegal vote buying.” 

He said that Brussels values the resilience of the Moldovan government in confronting these “unprecedented challenges,” adding that the EU will maintain its support.

In contrast, the situation in Georgia “is a more black picture.” 

“The ruling party’s recent actions, its statements, and electoral promises take the country away from the European path and signal a shift towards authoritarianism,” Borrell said. 

In effect, Tbliisi’s journey toward EU membership has practically stalled. 

“Let’s wait for the upcoming parliamentary elections, which will be a crucial test for democracy in Georgia and its European Union path,” he stated.

Parliamentary elections in Georgia are scheduled for Oct. 26, marking the first time they will be held under a fully proportional system. Meanwhile, Moldova’s presidential elections will take place on Oct. 20, coinciding with a national referendum on EU membership.