Moldova becomes a focal point of Russian interest ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for September 28. Dozens of individuals with questionable reputations are attempting to gain accreditation as international observers. Some of them previously participated in so-called referendums in Crimea, in the temporarily occupied territories of Donbas, and in Abkhazia, creating an illusion of legitimacy for these processes.
Among the potential “observers” are Serbian activist Dragana Trifković, who has openly collaborated with pro-Russian groups, and Italian Vito Grittani, who holds Abkhazian citizenship and has repeatedly acted as an “international expert” in pseudo-elections. Both are already listed in the database of fake observers maintained by the European Platform for Democratic Elections (EPDE).
The largest group of applications—around 30—was submitted by the African organization Institut Africa Solidarité. Despite previously showing little interest in Moldova’s elections, its representatives have actively cooperated with Russia, including participating in the BRICS summit in Kazan and even in Russian “elections.” Some of them have no experience in politics or civil society.
Moldova’s Central Election Commission stated that all applications are being carefully reviewed by the Information and Security Service. Those denied may, on Russia’s orders, use this as a pretext to claim the elections are “undemocratic.”
The electoral process in Moldova is under the supervision of international missions, providing an additional layer of oversight. This helps ensure voting transparency and reduces the likelihood of manipulation or attempts by Russia to discredit the results
