The government of Moldova, in collaboration with the European Union and the United States, is actively working on a new strategy known as the ‘roadmap’ for the reintegration of the country. However, the details of this initiative have not yet been disclosed. This was stated by the Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration, Valeriu Kiver, after a government meeting.
Kiver noted that the authorities decided not to share certain details, as this could ‘harm the final result.’ He emphasized that some issues are ‘sensitive’ and require a cautious approach and Time for consideration.
‘We cannot discuss all actions in real-time, as this may harm the final result. Work is ongoing, and at the appropriate time we will present the results to the public,’ Kiver said.
Refusal of ‘package’ settlement
Discussing the Transnistrian conflict in the context of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, Kiver clearly stated that Moldova has no intention of joining a joint package for the settlement of conflicts. He emphasized that only issues of regional security, including the withdrawal of Russian troops from Transnistria, may be discussed. Conflict resolution should take place through direct negotiations involving the Transnistrian side, with the support of the EU and the US.
The Deputy Prime Minister confirmed that the ‘5+2’ negotiation format (involving Moldova, Transnistria, the OSCE, Russia, Ukraine, the EU, and the US) is no longer effective. He stressed that the participation of Russia and Ukraine, which are at war, in the discussion of other conflicts is impossible. Currently, dialogue between Chisinau and Tiraspol is taking place directly in a ‘1+1’ format.
Relevance of the issue and the cost of reintegration
In the context of Moldova’s aspiration for EU integration, the issue of the withdrawal of Russian troops from Transnistria is becoming increasingly relevant. The EU High Representative, Kaja Kallas, previously emphasized that ‘the withdrawal of Russian troops from Moldova and other European regions is crucial for sustainable peace.’
The speaker of the Moldovan parliament, Igor Grosu, estimated the annual costs of reintegration at approximately €500 million (about 9.9 billion lei).
Additionally, it was previously reported about a secret plan by Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding interference in the elections in Moldova, which threatens the country’s course towards EU accession.
Plans regarding the capture of Odesa were held by Putin at the beginning of the full-scale war, and Russia does not abandon the goal of cutting Ukraine off from the Black Sea. Military expert, retired Lieutenant General Igor Romanenko named two main threats to Odesa: from the sea and from the territory of Transnistria.
Thus, Moldova demonstrates its determination in efforts for reintegration and advancement towards European integration. The loss of control over Transnistria and the presence of Russian troops remain among the most pressing issues for the country that require urgent resolution at the international level.