Ukraine has expressed its readiness to support the unrecognized Transnistria in the face of a humanitarian crisis caused by energy restrictions imposed by Russia. This was stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in his evening address. According to him, the Ukrainian side is ready to provide coal, but there has been no reaction from those who control the situation in Transnistria so far.
Zelensky stressed that the crisis is the result of Moscow's deliberate actions 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, it’s quite another if they really want to help people in Transnistria. We are ready,” the President of Ukraine noted.
Russia previously accused Moldovagaz of defaulting on its debts, which led to the cessation of gas supplies to the region. This had serious consequences for the population of Transnistria:
- Lack of gas, heating and hot water.
- Fanned power outages.
- Growing social tension.
Ukraine's humanitarian initiative is part of its strategy to demonstrate solidarity with neighboring nations and minimize Russia's influence in the region. However, the lack of response from Transnistria suggests that the regional authorities may be guided by Moscow's instructions.
The Ukrainian offer of aid poses a challenge for Transnistria and Russia. If the local authorities refuse to accept the aid, it will demonstrate their loyalty to the Kremlin. If they accept the 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.
