Moldovans will vote for a president on Sunday for the first time in 20 years, an election that could move the former Soviet republic closer to Europe or rekindle the nation's old ties with Moscow.
Both Russia and the West seek greater influence over the strategically placed, but impoverished agricultural country of 3.5 million. Polls show voters in Moldova, located between EU member Romania and Ukraine, are divided about which alliance offers them a better future.
The country signed an association agreement with the European Union in 2014 that some Moldovans hope could lead to eventual membership. Russia opposes Moldova joining the EU and has placed an embargo on its fruit, vegetables and wine.
Beyond geopolitics, there is widespread public anger about high-level corruption in one of Europe's poorest states. The average monthly salary is 220 euros ($240) and some 800,000 Moldovans work abroad and send remittances home.
The election is giving citizens a chance to express both their anger and their views on the country's direction. In March, the constitutional court ruled that Moldova's president should be elected by popular vote for the first time since 1996, replacing the system that had Parliament picking the nation's leader.
The president sets out foreign policy and appoints judges, but needs parliamentary approval for major decisions. However, the change in the way the president is elected is expected to bring the post more influence and authority.
Nine candidates are seeking the presidency, with only two standing a real chance. If no candidate wins an outright majority in the first round, there will be a runoff on Nov. 13.
The favorite to win is Igor Dodon, an avuncular, pro-Moscow figure who has tapped into popular anger, appealing to those who are nostalgic for the Soviet Union. He says his first foreign visit will be to Russia, if he is elected.
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