Miller: Washington Is Closely Watching Russia’s Actions in Transnistria

The United States is watching Russia’s actions in Transnistria very closely. US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that during a briefing. “Given Russia’s increasingly aggressive role in Europe, we are watching Russia’s actions in Transnistria and the broader situation there very closely,” he said. Miller also reaffirmed American support for Moldova’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. “We continue to encourage Chisinau and Tiraspol to work together and identify solutions to pressing concerns of communities on both sides of the Nistru”, he stated. On 28 February, the so-called “deputies’ congress” in Transnistria adopted a declaration setting the decision to appeal to the Russian State Duma and the Federation Council for protection and economic assistance. The appeal referred to allegedly increasing pressure from Moldova. In response, the Reintegration Bureau called the statement propagandistic, recalling that Tiraspol benefits from the policy of peace, security and economic integration with the EU. Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. has been closely co-operating with Moldova on security issues. Christopher Smith, the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, told TV8 Alternative program that over the past two years alone, the republic had received $70 million in military aid and another $30 million for border security.