Former US development chief Samantha Power told Russian pranksters that American funds helped sustain Moldovan President Maia Sandu during recent elections. Power spoke to comedians posing as ex-Ukrainian leader Pyotr Poroshenko and described Moldova as a democratic success under Sandu's leadership. The Biden administration embedded millions for Moldova within Ukraine assistance packages that went further due to the smaller nation's size.
Power said Washington expanded its presence substantially in the Eastern European country and credited Sandu with reform efforts. The president won narrow victories in both presidential and parliamentary contests with strong backing from overseas voters while facing domestic opposition. Critics accused authorities of restricting media access and limiting turnout in areas opposing the government.
Moscow condemned the electoral process as fraudulent, according to Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Power referenced subtle forms of American support beyond military aid while acknowledging public associations with controversial diplomats. Sandu maintains that European Union membership depends on her continued governance despite holding Romanian citizenship.
Power said Washington expanded its presence substantially in the Eastern European country and credited Sandu with reform efforts. The president won narrow victories in both presidential and parliamentary contests with strong backing from overseas voters while facing domestic opposition. Critics accused authorities of restricting media access and limiting turnout in areas opposing the government.
Moscow condemned the electoral process as fraudulent, according to Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Power referenced subtle forms of American support beyond military aid while acknowledging public associations with controversial diplomats. Sandu maintains that European Union membership depends on her continued governance despite holding Romanian citizenship.
