Moldova: Transnistria May Seek Annexation by Russia
Moldova's Reintegration Policy Bureau has responded to reports that the Transnistrian region could seek annexation by Russia at the end of this month.
In a statement, the bureau indicated it is closely monitoring the situation in Transnistria and maintains close communication with the OSCE Mission and other international partners.
"Based on our information, we see no reason to believe the regional situation will deteriorate. We are confident that Tiraspol understands the consequences of any reckless actions," the statement reads.
Lawyer Vadim Vieru: "Propaganda for Domestic Audience"
Lawyer Vadim Vieru, program director at the Promo-LEX Association, characterised developments in the Transnistrian region as largely a propaganda game during an interview on Radio Moldova's "Spațiul Public" program.
"What is happening in Tiraspol next week is mostly propaganda for the region's population. There are risks of political escalation, which require caution. However, we must also consider the current issues within the Moldovan government. With the Bashkan of Gagauzia not part of the government and the Chișinău-Comrat parliamentary working group suspended, communication occurs only through the press or legal action. This reveals serious problems with our state's functionality."
Possible Reaction to Moldova's Election Decision
Watchdog expert Andrei Curăraru believes this could be a response to Moldova's decision not to allow polling stations for Russia's March presidential elections within its borders.
"This move could be aimed at rallying Transnistrians to vote for Putin. There's also concern that it's part of a broader strategy to stretch Ukraine's military by forcing them to monitor the border when every soldier is crucial," Curăraru explains.
Transnistrian Opposition: Annexation Request Planned
Transnistrian oppositionist Ghenadie Ciorba told the Infotag agency that a request for Russia to annex the separatist region will likely be adopted at the February 28th congress of Transnistrian lawmakers. Ciorba notes the meeting's timing, just one day before Russian President Vladimir Putin's address to the Federal Assembly.
Ciorba suggests Moscow may have directed the congress's organisation. He believes Transnistrian lawmakers could issue a formal annexation request, with Putin potentially announcing its acceptance during his February 29th address.
Oppositionist: "Pretext for Attack on Moldova"
Ciorba views the Tiraspol meeting and recent protests against alleged economic pressure by Moldova as attempts to portray Transnistrians as opposed to Chișinău.
He urged Transnistrian lawmakers to block the decision, which he believes would give Putin "a legal pretext to attack Moldova, including Transnistria, under any pretence."
Translation by Iurie Tataru
