Russia warns US, NATO, and Ukraine over ‘reckless steps’ in Transnistria

The Russian Foreign Ministry has warned that any action by Ukraine or its Western allies that poses a threat to Russian peacekeepers or Russian nationals in the region separated from Moldova in Transnistria will be considered an attack on Russia.

In a statement released on Friday, Russian diplomats cited data from the country's Defense Ministry, according to which Ukraine has amassed a significant number of military forces and military equipment, including artillery, on its border with Transnistria.

In light of the deployment, Moscow warned the United States, NATO member states, and their Ukrainian subordinates against any adventurous actions or provocations. 

"We warn the US, NATO member countries, and their Ukrainian wards from the next reckless steps," the ministry said, adding that "any actions that pose a threat to their security will be considered in accordance with international law as an attack on the Russian Federation."

While Russia favors “political-diplomatic” ways of resolving issues, “no one should have any doubt that the Russian armed forces will react appropriately to any provocation by the Kiev regime,” the statement reads.

Moscow has stressed that it is determined to protect citizens, peacekeepers, and military forces stationed in the breakaway region of Moldova.

On Thursday, the Russian Ministry of Defense published a report on the increase of Ukrainian forces along the country's border with Transnistria.

SS