A decree by Kremlin dictator Vladimir Putin on the simplified granting of Russian citizenship to residents of the unrecognized Transnistria region may be aimed at mobilizing the local population for the war against Ukraine, according to Moldovan President Maia Sandu, as reported by Politico.
“It is likely that they need more people to send them to the war in Ukraine,” the Moldovan President stated. She characterized this as one of Russia’s tactics designed to threaten Moldova amid its efforts to reintegrate the breakaway region. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, many residents of Transnistria have opted for Moldovan citizenship, viewing it as a safer alternative to Russian nationality.
The push to issue Russian passports in occupied or disputed territories has long been part of Moscow’s strategy to justify potential military interventions or to forcibly recruit locals into their ranks. Sandu, however, remains firm in her stance against Russian influence. Addressing concerns regarding Moldova’s accession to the European Union, she emphasized that the path to integration is a decision for the EU and Moldova alone, and that Russia has no authority to block these sovereign developments.
Moldova’s commitment to European integration remains unshakable despite constant geopolitical pressure. By seeking closer ties with the West and reinforcing internal security, the government in Chisinau is taking proactive steps to neutralize the influence of the Kremlin. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has reshaped the security landscape of the entire region, forcing Moldova to pivot away from Moscow’s orbit. With the international community watching closely, the situation in Transnistria serves as a barometer for regional stability. Moldova continues to emphasize its readiness to join coalitions of determined partners to ensure its security and future democratic development, proving that it will not be intimidated by the legacy of Soviet-style expansionist policies.