Moldova will not allow Russia to use it against Ukraine - Sandu
President of Moldova Maia Sandu (photo: Getty Images)
Russia is trying to use Transnistria again to destabilize Moldova. However, the country is ready to protect its security and cooperate with Ukraine to resolve the crisis, stated Moldovan President Maia Sandu at a press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Sandu emphasized that Russia is trying to provoke social and economic chaos, as well as increase tensions on the Dniester River, to install a pro-Russian government in Chisinau.
She emphasized that the ultimate goal of these actions is to strengthen Russia's military presence in Transnistria and use Moldova against Ukraine.
"Rest assured, Moldova will fight back," Sandu said.
She assured that the country would remain a reliable neighbor and staunch supporter of Ukraine.
Sandu also noted that to avoid an energy crisis that could lead to new security threats, Moldova and Ukraine will work together with the EU to protect citizens on both banks of the Dniester from blackmail by Russia.
"President Zelenskyy and I discussed solutions to prevent this energy crisis from becoming a security crisis. Moldova and Ukraine will work together and with the EU to protect people on both banks of the Dniester from Russia's blackmail," she emphasized.
Additionally, Sandu emphasized the common commitment to the peaceful reintegration of Moldova, which includes the withdrawal of Russian troops illegally stationed in the country.
Today Moldovan President Maia Sandu arrived in Kyiv. She noted that she came to Ukraine at the invitation of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
On January 1, Ukraine stopped the transit of Russian gas to Europe and Moldova.
Earlier, President Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is ready to help Moldova resolve the energy crisis in Transnistria.
