Moldovans cast their ballots on Sunday in a presidential election and EU referendum at a pivotal moment that could reinforce the small agricultural economy's drive to join the European Union, after allegations of Russian election meddling.

Moldovans have started casting ballots in two key votes that could determine whether the European Union candidate country, which neighbors Ukraine, remains on a pro-western path amid ongoing allegations that Russia has tried to undermine the electoral process.

The Kremlin has been accused of vote-buying and using proxies to influence the outcome of the vote in Moldova.

Multiple U.S. agencies are supporting the Moldovan government in defending against cyberattacks and disinformation from Russia aimed at interfering in Moldovan elections this weekend.

Moldovans will cast their ballots on Sunday in two key votes that are viewed as critical to securing Moldova’s pro-Western future

Pro-European forces in the former Soviet Republic are trying to counter a campaign by Russia to keep the tiny nation in its orbit.

Sunday's presidential election is seen as a vote on whether the country looks east to Russia or west to the EU.

On a frigid evening in a village near Moldova's capital, President Maia Sandu warned locals of Russian meddling as she seeks reelection and touted joining the European Union as the only way forward. Her message came days before key votes that could help to determine the country's future.