Krasnoselski commented for the Kremlin-affiliated press on the possible accession of Moldova to the EU without Transnistria

In a recent interview with the Kremlin-affiliated Tass news agency, the self-proclaimed president of Transnistria, Vadim Krasnoselski, addressed the possibility of the Republic of Moldova joining the European Union without the Transnistrian region. The interview, which was published on the “official” website of the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (PMR) on Tuesday, sheds light on the perspectives from Tiraspol amid evolving discussions.

Tass: Following the EU’s decision to initiate negotiations with the Republic of Moldova, Chisinau announced its readiness to join the EU without Transnistria. Simultaneously, authorities emphasized their commitment to the region. What is Tiraspol’s stance on this matter? How do you envision the coexistence of both banks of the Dniester River, especially considering the increasing application of European legislation on the right bank?

“It is crucial to understand that the root of current issues in Moldo-Transnistrian relations lies not in the norms of European legislation or Moldova’s European integration. In addressing this, I have already given the example of the DCFTA, where Moldova, in its association with the European Union, concluded an agreement on a free trade area. During bilateral negotiations, European representatives and I managed to find a mutually acceptable formula to continue trade. However, even under the new conditions, Moldova has endeavored in various ways to restrict the export-import relationships of Transnistria over the years, creating issues for European consumers of our products.

The blockade measures from previous years, the introduction of taxes for our economic agents starting January 1 of this year – all these are a targeted policy of the Moldovan authorities. And the so-called ‘European choice’ has absolutely nothing to do with it. On the contrary, with these unfounded restrictions, which, among other things, violate the agreement between Transnistria and the European Union on the trade regime, the leaders of the Republic of Moldova once again demonstrate that their discourse on European values is nothing but an empty phrase.

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Nothing hinders the Moldovan side from returning to the negotiation table now and lifting restrictions on people and businesses. I am deeply convinced that the scenario where there are good neighborly relations between Transnistria and Moldova is the most profitable and viable of all. And it can be implemented even under the notorious conditions of European integration. But so far, the Moldovan authorities are steering our relations towards more confrontation.

As for statements about Moldova’s accession to the European Union without the territory of Transnistria, I would call that a realistic approach. We are a separate subject of international relations. Neither the EU nor Moldova can decide for us. Therefore, if a neighboring country wants to join somewhere, then go ahead, and we ourselves will determine our own destiny,” claimed Vadim Krasnoselski

It is noteworthy that Chisinau is exploring various scenarios for the Republic of Moldova’s accession to the EU in the context of the unresolved Transnistrian conflict. One of these scenarios primarily involves integrating only the right bank of the Dniester. Additionally, Vadim Krasnoselski expressed confidence that Transnistria will eventually gain international recognition.