Marred by allegations of heavy Russian meddling, the runoff election had been widely viewed as a touchstone moment that would decide if Moldova would align itself with Brussels or Moscow.

Leading the tributes, the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, wrote on X: “Congratulations on your victory tonight. It takes a rare kind of strength to overcome the challenges you’ve faced in this election.

“I’m glad to continue working with you towards a European future for Moldova and its people.”

Poland’s Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, also mentioned the challenges that Sandu’s campaign had faced in the runoff: “Despite Russia’s aggressive and massive interference in the Moldovan presidential elections, Maia Sandu has most likely defeated Moscow’s favorite.”

Obliquely referencing the forthcoming U.S. election, Tusk added: “Let’s hope that this trend will continue in the coming days and months in other countries as well.”

Heaping praise on Moldovan voters, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said: “Ukraine supports the European choice of the Moldovan people and stands ready to work together to strengthen our partnership.

“Moldovans have made a clear choice—they chose a path toward economic growth and social stability.”

In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke optimistically of Moldova’s European future: “Maia Sandu has guided the Republic of Moldova safely through difficult times and set her country on a European course,” he wrote. “We stand by Moldova's side in this. Congratulations on your re-election as President!”

Echoing the sentiments of Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron also encouraged Moldova’s European ambitions.

“Democracy has triumphed over all interference and maneuvers,” wrote Macron. “France will continue to stand by Moldova on its European path.”