It’s a tiny region in the northeast of Moldova, where the war in Ukraine still threatens to spread: Transnistria. Snatched away by Russian speakers in the spring of 1992, it transformed into a self-proclaimed republic with the help of Moscow. To better control the south of Ukraine, the Russians are again interested in this piece of land, to annex it to their territory.
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Concerns about Russian designs on Transnistria are not new. This possibility has indeed been talked about since the annexation of Crimea in 2014. However, to reach Tiraspol, the capital of Transnistria, you will first have to pass through Odessa, the major Ukrainian port on the Black Sea, which kyiv is not about to let go. “As long as Odessa is strong and resists, I still feel safe”explains Irina Tabaranu, modal specialist of the region.
“If Odessa fell completely, the junction with Transnistria, which is the official territory of the Republic of Moldova, would undoubtedly be made. But it will be a question of a junction with the Republic of Moldova! will not be safe then.”
Irina Tabaranu, Moldovan specialist in Transnistriaat franceinfo
Concern is also gaining political leaders. “I would be lying if I said that we are not worried”confesses the young vice-president of the Moldovan Parliament, Mihai Popsoi. “There is certainly an increased level of anxiety among the public and policymakers. The so-called rulers of Transnistria do not want to see it become another Donbass and a war zone or Tiraspol become another Mariupol. No one in good faith would want that for their community.”
Proof that the Russians are very interested in the region, Tiraspol, the capital of Transnistria, is closely watched. The local government continues to speak of a “terrorist threat” after the mysterious explosions that hit several strategic sites at the end of April. Russian troops are visible but passers-by pretend to ignore them. “If the local political leaders, as well as those of the army, think that the circumstances are good, they will help the Russian army. But for the moment, they are rather afraid of getting angry with the Ukrainians”explains Victor Pleshkanov, 58 years old. Originally from Tiraspol, he is therefore a Russian citizen but a fierce opponent of the occupation. “It’s a very big chance to end Transnistria! A great opportunity!”
Viktor believes that the citizens of Transnistria do not want to go to war alongside the Russians but prefer to stay at home. On Wednesday May 18, during a speech delivered to the European Parliament on the eve of her trip to Paris, Maia Sandu, the President of Moldova, had moreover asked for the withdrawal of Russian troops installed in Transnistria, on the territory therefore of his country.