The governor of Moldova’s pro-Russia Gagauzia region has requested the “protection” of Russian President Vladimir Putin, intensifying fears that Moldova could be the next target of Russian expansionism.
Gagauzia Governor Claims Oppression

Gagauzia Governor Eugenia Gutul accused Moldova’s pro-EU leadership of “oppressing” pro-Kremlin residents and sought Putin’s help during a Friday meeting with a top Russian lawmaker.
Comes After Separatist Plea

It comes after the breakaway Transnistria region earlier requested Russia take measures to “defend” it.
Analysts warn Russia could use such requests to justify intervening in Moldova as it did in Ukraine.
Seeks Direct Flights, Economic Ties with Russia

Gutul also called for establishing direct flights between Gagauzia and Russia and praised economic cooperation with Russian regions.
The Russian speaker welcomed the further development of such ties.
Elected on Pro-Russia Platform

Gutul was elected last year on the promise of closer relations with Russia, and in a vote, Moldova’s government was investigated for fraud.
Her overtures to Putin will likely heighten invasion fears.

Landlocked Moldova borders Ukraine, which Russia invaded while citing NATO’s eastward expansion as a threat.
Moldova gained EU membership candidate status last year, earning Moscow’s ire.
President Accused Putin of Coup Plot

Earlier this year, Moldova’s president accused Putin of plotting a coup using over 1,500 Russian troops based in Transnistria since it split from Moldova in the 1990s.
Russia Vows to Consider Transnistria Plea

A Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Wednesday that Moscow would “carefully consider” Transnistria’s request to protect Russian “compatriots.”
Analysts Warn of Invasion Pretext

Analysts caution that such pretexts could justify Russia’s invade Moldova next after failing to topple Ukraine’s government so far.
Quotes on Invasion Threat

The Russian speaker stated that if the leaders of Gagauzia are ready to work together like this, they will offer all the help they can, making people worry about a possible invasion.
Gagauzia Previously Sought Annexation

In 2014, a referendum in Gagauzia saw overwhelming support for annexation by Russia if Moldova moved to join the EU or NATO.
The region has autonomous status within Moldova.
Putin Cites NATO Expansion for Invasion

Putin cited the threat of neighboring states joining NATO as justification for his full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
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