Maia Sandu has won the second round of Moldova's presidential election defeating the pro-Russian incumbent with almost all ballots counted, according to the central election commission.
Maia Sandu, a former prime minister was leading Sunday night (15 November) with 57% of the votes over Igor Dodon's 44%, with the full results expected Monday.
The victory will be seen as a slap in the face for Russian president Vladimir Putin who for the last years has worked closely with Dodon in trying to move Moldova away from its European path as an EU Associate member. Sandu has campaigned for stronger relations with the European Union.
Celebrations broke out overnight in front of opposition headquarters in the centre of the capital Chisinau, with supporters chanting: "President Maia Sandu" and "a country for young people".
source: commonspace.eu with agencies
photo: The new president of Moldova, Maia Sandu
