Russian troops in Transnistria a 'disturbing factor' for Ukraine, but ambassador says no immediate threat
The Ukrainian ambassador to Moldova, Marko Shevchenko, has expressed concern about the presence of Russian military forces in the Transnistrian region, but said that he does not believe that Russia will launch an attack from the region in the near future.
Shevchenko said that the Russian troops in Transnistria are directly subordinated to the Ministry of Defense in Moscow and that they pose a threat to Ukraine. However, he said that Russia has not yet reached the point where it would need to intervene in the region.
"As long as the frontline is away from Moldova, the military forces in the region will be peaceful," Shevchenko said.
Shevchenko's comments come amid growing tensions between Moldova and Russia. Moldova has repeatedly called for the withdrawal of Russian troops from the region, but Russia has refused.
Shevchenko said that Ukraine is taking steps to prepare for a possible Russian attack from Transnistria. He said that Ukrainian forces are stationed near the border with Moldova and that they are ready to respond to any threat.
"We are monitoring the situation closely," Shevchenko said. "We are ready for any eventuality."
