Strike from the rear: Moldovan expert on a new threat to Ukraine

Russian dictator Putin wants to install a loyal government in Moldova and deploy additional troops in the unrecognized territory of Transnistria, in order to create a threat to Ukraine from the rear.

This was stated by Andrei Andriescu, political analyst from Moldova, as reported by «Kyiv 24.»

In his opinion, Putin’s activity regarding Moldova is not driven by interest in the country itself, but rather by the intention to create a foothold behind Ukraine.

«Moldova for Putin now is something peripheral. Of course, he wouldn’t mind having us [residents of Moldova — Ed.] under his control, but right now, what’s much more important for him is creating problems for Ukraine, ” the expert says.

If Chișinău falls under pro-Russian control, it could lead to a strengthened military presence in Transnistria and the blockage of transit routes — something critical for Ukraine.

According to Andriescu, Russia is already using local pro-Russian politicians who have repeatedly criticized Ukraine and fueled pro-Kremlin sentiments in the country. In particular, he recalled that former Moldovan president Igor Dodon has previously voiced territorial claims to Ukraine’s southern Odesa region and parts of Chernivtsi region.

«This is all part of a broader plan to create a rear threat for Ukraine, ” the political analyst concluded.