Budanov Says Russia Boosting Military Readiness in Transnistria Amid Strategic Fears

The Head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office warned that Moscow is reinforcing its limited contingent in the breakaway region to counter perceived threats from Kyiv. Make us preferred on Google Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Vehicles wait in line at the border crossing point between Moldova and Transnistria in Varnita on January 17, 2025. (Photo by Daniel MIHAILESCU / AFP) Content Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Flip Make us preferred on Google Russia is reinforcing its military presence in the unrecognized region of Transnistria due to concerns over the security of its limited contingent, Kyrylo Budanov , the head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, said in an interview with the Moldovan media outlet Malenkaya Strana . According to Budanov, while Ukraine views the Russian forces as a potential threat, Moscow conversely believes the danger originates from Kyiv. He noted that while the question of the Russian military presence has surfaced during broader peace discussions, there are currently no active negotiations regarding a withdrawal. “We have enough of a front in the east and north of our country for now,” Budanov stated. Follow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official . Budanov characterized the Russian grouping in Transnistria as limited in its capabilities, prompting the Kremlin to strengthen its readiness to react to potential escalations. Commenting on the hypothetical scenario of Ukraine taking control of the region, he noted that while it is unlikely to happen “without a single shot,” Ukrainian forces certainly have the capacity to do so, though he emphasized that the issue remains “premature.” The situation in the region has grown increasingly tense following a diplomatic move by Chisinau. On Thursday, April 16, Moldova declared senior commanders of the Russian forces in Transnistria, including commander Dmitry Zelenkov, persona non grata . Other Topics of Interest Moscow Falling Back on Soviet-Style Escalation Tactics as Battlefield Gains Stall – Veteran US Diplomat Veteran US diplomat Daniel Fried says Hungary may stop acting as Putin’s agent in Europe and that Ukraine should move quickly to restore damaged ties with Budapest. This decision effectively restricts their movement and signals Moldova’s firm stance against what it describes as an illegal military presence. Intelligence reports suggest that Russia’s renewed focus on Transnistria is part of a broader hybrid operation linked to upcoming regional elections in 2026. According to Ukrainian Defense Intelligence (HUR), Moscow is boosting mobilization and has already established drone production and training centers in the region. Kyiv Post is Ukraine’s first and oldest English news organization since 1995. Its international market reach of 97% outside of Ukraine makes it truly Ukraine’s Global – and most reliable – Voice.