Mixed Signals in Transdniestria

A resolution to the conflict between Russia and Moldova over the disputed territory of Transdniestria has been obstructed by calls for Moldova's reunification with Romania, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitri Rogozin said Aug. 3. The statement by Rogozin, who is serving as special envoy to Transdniestria, came a day after he met in Moscow with the president of the unrecognized republic of Transdniestria, Yevgeny Shevchuk. It also came amid a flurry of activity regarding the status of the breakaway territory. While recent events have raised questions about the trajectory of Transdniestria, major obstacles will impede meaningful change to the political or security situation in the strategic region.