Russia Warns Moldova Over Rising Tensions in Transnistria
Russia has criticized Moldova’s policies toward Transnistria. Russian officials accuse the government of Maia Sandu of harming local residents. They also blame Chisinau for ignoring the country’s real problems and driving people abroad.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova made these statements at a briefing. She was commenting on the current situation in the region.
According to Zakharova, Moldova’s own policies pose the main threat to the future of its citizens and their children. She rejected claims that alleged threats linked to Russia were the main danger.
Zakharova also criticized the government’s promises of a “bright European future.” She argued that many Moldovans were leaving the country instead.
“While the Chisinau regime talks about a ‘bright European future’ for Moldova, its residents are simply fleeing the country,” Zakharova said.
She added that this trend showed how far the authorities were from people’s everyday concerns. She also questioned Moldova’s chosen path toward European integration.
Russia Warns of a Possible Escalation in Transnistria
Meanwhile, Russian Ambassador to Moldova Oleg Ozerov warned of possible escalation. He said tensions could worsen if Chisinau continued its current policy toward Transnistria.
Ozerov accused Moldova of putting economic pressure on the region. He described the measures as a deliberate attempt to weaken Transnistria’s economy.
“This is a policy of economic strangulation,” Ozerov said, according to the Russian diplomatic mission’s press service. He accused Chisinau of taking unilateral steps that worsened the region’s economic situation.
However, he stressed that Russia would continue to support Transnistria.
“Russia will not abandon its support,” the ambassador said.
Ozerov also referred to remarks by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin. On August 29, Galuzin warned that the risk of escalation on the left bank of the Dniester River could not be ruled out.
He made the statement despite Moldova’s official commitment to a peaceful settlement.
Moscow Says It Could Respond to Escalation
Russian officials also reaffirmed what they described as their duty to protect Russian citizens and compatriots in the region.
Ozerov warned that Russia could respond quickly if tensions increased. He said the country’s ability to act would not depend on the distance involved.
“Russia has reaffirmed its obligations to protect citizens and compatriots in the region, promising an immediate and decisive response,” Ozerov said.
He added that Moscow could not rule out escalation if Moldova continued its current policy. Ozerov described Chisinau’s actions as “inhumane.”
The statements underline growing tensions between Moscow and Chisinau over Transnistria. However, the remarks reflect the Russian side’s position and accusations. They do not establish that an escalation will occur.
