Russia concerned about its contingent in Transnistria, Presidential Office says
Photo: Kyrylo Budanov (Getty Images)
Russia is seeking to reinforce its contingent in the unrecognized region of Transnistria, as it fears for its safety. At the same time, it is unable to increase its forces there, stated the head of the Presidential Office, Kyrylo Budanov.
He said that available data indicates that the Russian command has not abandoned plans to step up its activity in Transnistria.
"I would call this a war of fears. The Russians are worried about their contingent and want to take at least some measures to strengthen it, so that it is ready to respond if something happens," Budanov said.
According to him, Ukraine is aware of these plans and is obligated to respond, describing this as a "standard military approach."
Budanov also described the Russian military presence in Transnistria as "too weak."
"They cannot reinforce it, and they fear for their contingent the most," he added.
At the same time, Budanov expressed doubt that Transnistria could be taken under control "without a single shot."
"Without a single shot? I don’t believe it. If the question is whether we could do it — yes, we could, with shots, but we could. However, I believe this is a premature question," he said.
Threat from Transnistria
Transnistria, with its limited Russian military contingent, has long remained a territory outside Moldova’s control. In late December, RBC-Ukraine sources reported a significant increase in the risk of Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups infiltrating Ukraine from Transnistria.
Through such actions, the Kremlin may be attempting to divert part of Ukraine’s resources to counter threats coming from the territory of Transnistria.
Later, Moldovan authorities denied reports of increased Russian military activity in Transnistria, while noting that various actions regularly take place there that contribute to tensions in the region.
According to Ukraine’s ambassador to Moldova, the so-called Operational Group of Russian Forces currently includes more than 1,000 armed troops.
