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Moldova’s Gagauzia Region Seeks Russia’s ‘Protection’ As Fears Rise of Another Russian Conflict

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Shares Border with Ukraine

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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

Credit: DepositPhotos – Brussels, Belgium. 30th Sep. 2019. Prime Minister of Moldova Maia Sandu and EU Commissioner Federica Mogherini during a press conference on the results of EU-Moldova Association Council. — Photo by Ale_Mi

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

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

Analysts Warn of Invasion Pretext

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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

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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

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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

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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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