In Moldova, Transdniestria Stands Its Ground

Neither Russia nor Transdniestria appears ready to resolve the breakaway territory's conflict with Moldova anytime soon, despite somewhat promising statements to that effect. In a July 24 meeting with Moldovan Foreign Minister Natalia Gherman in Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russia would withdraw weapons from Transdniestria only if Tiraspol and Chisinau agreed on a format for dialogue. However, major concessions from either side seem unlikely.

Transdniestria is small and remote, but its location in Europe's borderlands has made it a highly coveted area for centuries. Eastern and Western powers have long competed for primacy in the area, and Russia and Europe continue that competition to this day.