The Russian military command is becoming increasingly anxious about the fate of its isolated contingent in the unrecognized region of Transnistria, while simultaneously drafting new plans to create a “buffer zone” in Ukraine’s Vinnytsia region. These strategic dynamics were detailed by Kyrylo Budanov, Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, in an interview with the YouTube channel “Malenka Kraina”. Additionally, Pavlo Palisa, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, confirmed these new Russian operational goals during an interview with the RBC-Ukraine news agency.
According to Kyrylo Budanov, the situation regarding Transnistria is essentially a “war of fears.” Intelligence indicates the Russian command has not abandoned plans to intensify activities in the Moldovan separatist region. “The Russians are afraid for their contingent and want to take measures to strengthen it and ensure it is ready to react,” the intelligence chief explained. Ukraine is closely monitoring these developments and is fully prepared to respond to any provocations.
Budanov assessed the Russian military grouping in Transnistria as “too weak.” He noted that Moscow lacks the logistical capability to reinforce it, which only heightens their anxiety. When asked if the region could be taken “without a single shot,” Budanov expressed strong doubts. While Ukrainian forces could accomplish the task militarily if required, discussing such actions right now is entirely premature.
Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Pavlo Palisa revealed a new addition to Russian military planning. For the first time, Moscow’s documents include a directive to establish a “buffer zone” in the Vinnytsia region, bordering Transnistria. Previously, Russia only openly discussed creating such zones in northern and eastern Ukraine. However, Palisa urged the public not to panic, firmly stating that Russian forces currently lack the resources necessary to realize these expansive intentions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reassured the nation that there is no imminent threat of an attack from Transnistria. Zelensky clarified that while Russia desires to create buffer zones along all borders, real danger only exists in areas with significant concentrations of Russian troops, namely the eastern and southern front lines.
Despite the lack of an immediate threat, Ukrainian Defense Forces are taking no chances. Engineering works are actively underway along the border with Transnistria in the Vinnytsia region. Military engineers are constructing robust defensive lines, building fortifications, and installing mine-explosive barriers to deter any hypothetical cross-border incursions. Ukraine maintains a proactive defensive posture, ensuring total readiness for any shifts in Russian military tactics.