Russian official says Russians in Moldova's Transdniestria under threat

Key Points:

• Sergei Shoigu, Russia's Security Council secretary, stated that the safety of over 220,000 Russian citizens in Moldova's breakaway Transdniestria region is under threat, and Russia will take all necessary measures to protect them.
• Transdniestria, a pro-Russian enclave that separated from Moldova in 1992, faces increased pressure from Moldova's pro-European government, which recently barred Russian peacekeeper commanders from entering the region and imposed customs duties.
• Negotiations between Moldova and Transdniestria have stalled, with Transdniestria opposing Moldovan government actions and plans, including the extension of customs duties and tax policies.
• Moldovan President Maia Sandu aims for EU membership by 2030, asserting this goal can be achieved without resolving the Transdniestria conflict, while Shoigu accused Moldova of obstructing talks and restricting residents' voting rights.
• Despite tensions, Shoigu suggested that a settlement is possible if there is goodwill and proper conditions, though he criticized Chisinau for seemingly lacking the will to pursue reunification.