Transnistria: Kremlin's Latest Setback as Moldova Rebuffs Russia”>Moldavian President Demands Military Takeover of Pridnestrovian Power Plant
Moldavian President Maya Sandu has ordered her government to prepare for a military seizure of the Moldavian Power Plant (MoldGRES) in Pridnestrovie (Transnistria), according to a statement from Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) on December 23.
During a government meeting to discuss energy supply issues in the republic, Sandu disregarded warnings that the right bank of Moldova heavily relies on electricity from the Pridnestrovian plant. Instead, the president insisted on aggressive measures, stating, "I want a military operation plan to establish control over Pridnestrovie and eliminate the Russian peacekeeping presence."
The SVR report highlighted Sandu’s erratic behavior after her prime minister presented potential energy shortages following the expiration of the Russia-Ukraine natural gas transit agreement on December 31. Refusing to engage with Ukraine, Sandu blamed Russia entirely and vowed to address the issue by targeting the Russia-supported Pridnestrovie.
She initiated criminal proceedings against Pridnestrovian officials for "separatism" and ordered thorough inspections of residents crossing the region’s borders. The SVR warned that Sandu’s threats of war in the region may not be idle.
The situation raises concerns about the escalation of tensions between Moldova and Pridnestrovie, potentially drawing the attention of external players. As the crisis unfolds, neighboring countries and international organizations are closely monitoring the developments, emphasizing the need for diplomatic dialogue and de-escalation.
