On Moldova’s Sovereignty Day, the Russian Embassy in Chisinau issued a public message declaring that Moscow respects Moldova’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and neutral status.
The embassy’s statement, published on June 23, comes despite the continued presence of over 1,000 Russian troops on the left bank of the Dniester River in Transnistria. A breakaway region that declared independence after the 1992 conflict instigated by Moscow. To date, no state has recognized Transnistria’s self-proclaimed independence.
“Russia supports the desire of states to determine their future independently, taking into account the traditions and characteristics of their civilization,” the Russian diplomats stated.
They emphasized that Russia complies with the 2001 Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation with the Republic of Moldova, claiming non-interference in Moldova’s internal affairs.
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“Our country strictly respects Moldova’s sovereignty, neutral status, and territorial integrity,” the statement reads.
“According to these principles—enshrined in Moldova’s Constitution—rejection of confrontation with Russia is key to the Republic of Moldova’s stability, prosperity, good-neighborly relations, and mutually beneficial cooperation.”
Background: Contradictions and Political Tensions
The embassy’s message contrasts sharply with realities on the ground, where Russian military forces remain stationed in Transnistria in violation of Moldova’s repeated calls for withdrawal and international agreements urging Russia to honor its commitments.
On the same day, Moldova marked 35 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Sovereignty with a government-led March of Sovereignty through the capital, while pro-Russian opposition groups, many with recent ties to Moscow, held a rally outside Parliament, amplifying anti-European rhetoric and questioning Moldova’s Western integration path.
The conflicting narratives reflect the ongoing geopolitical tension in Moldova as the country continues to navigate between its European aspirations and Russian influence, particularly in the run-up to the autumn parliamentary elections.