With 55 percent of voters' support – compared to 45 percent for Stoianoglo – incumbent President Sandu thus expands her lead.
Moldova, you are the winners! Today, dear Moldovans, you have taught us a lesson in democracy worth writing into history books. Today, you have saved Moldova! In our election for a complete future, no one lost, said Sandu as she declared herself the winner.
The second and decisive round of voting was held on Sunday in Moldova, and earlier figures showed Stoianoglo having a small lead.
Two weeks ago, Moldovans voted with a narrow majority in favor of EU membership. Parallel to the referendum, a presidential election was held, where Maia Sandu received the most support with 42 percent.
Since Sandu did not receive over 50 percent, a second round against Stoianoglo was required, who then received around 26 percent of the votes.
Stoianoglo later received support from other defeated candidates, and analysts predicted a very even final round of voting. Russia is accused of trying to influence the election result, and a number of reports of alleged electoral fraud have poured in to the police.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen congratulates Maia Sandu on her victory.
"It takes a special kind of strength to overcome the challenges you faced in this election," she writes in a post on X.
