Ukraine’s ambassador to Moldova, Paun Rohovei, has confirmed that Ukrainian forces have mined Transnistria border, citing security concerns.
“A whole range of measures defend Transnistria border”
Responding to journalists’ questions about risks related to Transnistria, Rohovei said the measures taken go beyond mine-laying.
“It’s not just about mining. There is a whole range of actions aimed at ensuring the security and protection of that section. These measures are useful not only for Ukraine, but also for the Republic of Moldova,” the ambassador stated.
Justification: lack of control and Russian presence
The Ukrainian diplomat described the steps as necessary due to Chișinău’s lack of control over the region and the presence of Russian troops in the breakaway territory.
“Any movement of weapons or sabotage groups we understand very well what is happening in Transnistria. You have a territory you do not control, and there are troops of the Russian Federation – a country that has launched a war against Ukraine,” Rohovei added.
He also pointed to the ammunition depot in Cobasna, calling it “very dangerous”.
Disputed threat assessment
According to earlier information from Russia’s Foreign Ministry, the Russian military contingent in the region numbered around 1,200 personnel as of last summer. It was described as lightly armed and largely composed of local residents holding Russian citizenship.
From this perspective, the contingent is portrayed as posing no significant threat to Ukrainian forces, which vastly outnumber it in both manpower and military capability.
