France, Sept. 28 -- Moldovans are heading to the polls on Sunday - in what is widely seen as the most important election since the country gained independence - facing a political crossroads with implications for its European future, regional security and domestic stability.

At stake are all 101 seats in the unicameral parliament, which are elected via proportional representation.

The significance of Sunday's vote transcends national boundaries. Moldova's next government will determine whether the country maintains its accelerated path toward European Union membership, or pivots back toward deeper ties with Moscow.

The election is set against a backdrop of Russia's ongoing war in neighbouring Ukraine, and intense international interest...