Tiraspol, Moldova – Pro-Russian rebels in the separatist region of Transnistria have reached out to President Vladimir Putin for protection against perceived threats from the Moldovan government. Transnistria, a territory that split from Moldova during the collapse of the Soviet Union, has remained closely aligned with the Kremlin, while Moldova has sought closer ties with the European Union.
At a recent congress, Transnistrian politicians requested Moscow’s safeguarding from what they described as mounting pressure from Moldova. The Kremlin responded by asserting the priority of protecting its “compatriots” in the region, according to Russian state media.
Although concerns arose that the congress could lead to destabilization efforts by Moscow against Moldova’s pro-Western government, Moldova dismissed these fears as propaganda. The rare gatherings of the Transnistrian Congress of Deputies carry historical significance, as a similar assembly in 1990 led to a war between Moscow-backed separatists and Moldova.
Transnistria, unrecognized by any country, hosts a diminishing Russian military presence of approximately 1,500 troops. Recent developments, including debates on unification with Russia and appeals for enhanced protection of Russian nationals in the region, have raised tensions between Transnistria and Moldova.
In response to Moldova’s efforts to resolve the long-standing conflict with Transnistria, the European Union granted Moldova candidate status and approved the commencement of accession negotiations. The situation in the region remains complex, with analysts highlighting Russia’s strategic interests and Moldova’s pursuit of closer integration with the EU.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has also impacted Transnistria’s economy, with Ukraine closing its border with the territory and disrupting trade flows. As geopolitical tensions continue to shape the region’s dynamics, the future of Transnistria remains uncertain amidst competing interests and security concerns.