Ukraine has expressed its readiness to support the unrecognized Transnistria in the conditions of a humanitarian crisis caused by energy restrictions on the part of Russia. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated this in his evening address. According to him, the Ukrainian side is ready to provide coal, but there is still no reaction from those who control the situation in Transnistria.
Zelensky emphasized that the crisis is the result of deliberate actions by Moscow aimed at creating chaos in Transnistria. Thus, Russia is trying to manipulate public sentiment in Moldova on the eve of the elections.
"If they play along with Russia, that's one thing, quite another — if they really want to help people in Transnistria. We are ready," the President of Ukraine said.
Earlier, Russia accused "Moldovagaz" of non-payment of debts, which led to the termination of gas supplies to the region. This caused severe consequences for the population of Transnistria:
- Lack of gas, heating and hot water.
- Fan power outages.
- Growing social tension.
Ukraine's humanitarian initiative is part of its strategy to demonstrate solidarity with neighboring nations and to minimize Russia's influence in the region. However, the lack of a response from Transnistria indicates that the regional authorities can be guided by Moscow's instructions.
Ukraine's offer of help creates a kind of challenge for Transnistria and Russia. If local authorities refuse to accept aid, it will demonstrate their loyalty to the Kremlin. In the case of accepting aid, Ukraine will be able to strengthen its position as a regional partner capable of supporting its neighbors in crisis situations.
In any case, the situation in Transnistria remains one of the markers of Russian influence in the post-Soviet space, and Ukraine's actions may become an important factor in changing the regional balance of power.
