Transnistria

Moldova has announced plans to expel a staff member from the Russian embassy following allegations of election interference in the breakaway Transnistrian region, according to reports by Reuters.

Bulgaria has taken a firm stance against the recent Russian presidential elections held in the illegally occupied territories of Ukraine, including Transnistria, South Ossetia, and Abkhazia. In a statement released on social media, the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed strong condemnation of these elections.

Amid a three-day voting period for Russia's presidential elections, Vladimir Putin stands poised to secure a fifth term in office, despite growing international concern over the legitimacy of the process. The elections held not only within Russia but also in the occupied territories of Ukraine, have sparked a wave of criticism and accusations from neighboring countries.

A high-ranking official from Moldova has accused Russia of violating the law by printing ballots in the separatist region of Transnistria ahead of Russia's upcoming presidential election, as reported by Reuters via BTA.

Amid tensions in Moldova, French diplomacy has raised concerns over what it perceives as Moscow's involvement in "attempts to destabilize" the country. Pro-Russian separatists from Transnistria, a breakaway region of Moldova, have reportedly sought assistance from Moscow, prompting speculation about Russia's role in the unfolding situation, AFP reported.

Amidst an alleged "economic blockade imposed by Moldova", the parliament of Transnistria, a self-proclaimed republic unrecognized by the international community, has issued an appeal to Russia for assistance. The resolution, adopted yesterday, urges the Russian parliament to take measures to protect Transnistria in the face of increased pressure from Moldova.

Amidst escalating tensions in the region, Transnistria, the self-proclaimed state bordering Moldova, is considering convening a new "referendum" on potential annexation by Russia. The possibility of such a move has raised concerns about the destabilization of the region and its implications for international relations.

"The Republic of Moldova vehemently condemns threats directed at Moldova made by a Russian representative in the occupied part of Ukraine to attack a bridge between Moldova and Romania. This is not acceptable".

Tens of thousands of Moldovans rallied on Sunday to demand European Union membership for their country, whose bid to join the bloc has been accelerated by the war in neighbouring Ukraine.

The former Soviet republic of 2.6 million people applied last year to join the EU and in June 2022 became a candidate country, alongside Ukraine.

Under a pro-European leadership, Moldova has sought to rid itself of Russian influence, but it won't be easy, especially with Russian soldiers in Transnistria.