"This is not about Transnistria at all. It's about Moldova, about an attempt to divert Moldova from its European path. It's about an effort to change the government in Moldova so that it does not exit the sphere of Russian influence. Essentially, it's to ensure that Russia, as they believe, does not lose Moldova. They want a different government in Moldova," said Kulminsky in response to a journalist's question regarding the situation in Transnistria.
He emphasized that Russia needs a government in Moldova that would agree to a status that defines Moldova as an "in between state," a gray zone, or a "buffer state."
"For 30 years since gaining independence, this term has been the cornerstone of the state’s foreign policy—essentially, 'let's be friends with everyone.' As we can see, this foreign policy has not worked. Currently, Moldova has a government with many shortcomings. However, this government states that it will no longer engage in geopolitical games with Russia, but instead will do everything possible to join the EU and break free from Russian influence," he stated.
Kulminsky added that Russia understands this very well and is creating an artificial crisis to hinder Moldova and prevent it from distancing itself.