Strong rhetoric from Moscow signals rising pressure over a long-frozen conflict. The warning hints at broader geopolitical stakes as tensions quietly build in the region.
Russia’s Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu stated that, in his view, the actions of Moldova’s authorities regarding Transnistria increasingly resemble the events around Donbas after 2014. He expressed this position in an interview with a Russian publication.
According to Shoigu, Chisinau, allegedly with Ukraine’s involvement, has established a “blockade” of the region and is creating difficult conditions for local residents through economic and logistical restrictions.
“These are restrictions on freedom of movement, незаконні customs charges, arbitrary deprivation of citizenship… The situation, frankly, is difficult. Systemically important enterprises are either not operating or are functioning intermittently, and there is a chronic shortage of energy resources.”
– Sergei Shoigu
He also stated that the rhetoric of Moldova’s leadership regarding Transnistria is, in his opinion, becoming similar to statements made by the Ukrainian authorities after 2014, and warned against further escalation.
“More than 220,000 Russian citizens live in Transnistria, whose interests and security are now under threat due to the ill-considered and irresponsible actions of Kyiv and Chisinau. And if necessary, Russia will take all required steps and use all available methods to protect them.”
– Sergei Shoigu
In addition, Shoigu accused Moldova of attempting to push the operational group of Russian troops out of Transnistria. He recalled Chisinau’s decision to declare the leadership of the contingent persona non grata, which effectively limited their movement beyond the region.
In his view, this step indicates the intention of the Moldovan authorities to increase tensions.
“We still hope that events will not develop according to the most negative scenario. We have repeatedly warned at all levels that any attempts to resolve the Transnistrian issue by force, as well as efforts to replace Russian peacekeepers with a ‘contingent of Western countries,’ will provoke negative consequences for Moldova and the entire region.”
– Sergei Shoigu
Context of the statements and political tensions
These statements were made against the backdrop of Moldova’s decision to withdraw from the CIS. Russia had previously warned of possible negative consequences for the country if it continued its course toward closer ties with Europe and confrontation with Moscow.
In the autumn of 2025, Moldova approved a new military strategy through 2035, in which Russia is named as the main threat. President Maia Sandu has repeatedly stated that Moscow is interfering in the country’s internal affairs and has accused it of attempting to destabilize the situation.
The situation around Transnistria remains tense, and the mutual statements of the sides only intensify the political confrontation in the region.