Transnistria remains a de facto independent region of Moldova

Transnistria remains a de facto independent breakaway region located on the left bank of the Dniester River, despite being internationally recognized as part of Moldova. The territory, officially known as the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (PMR), has maintained its own government, military, currency, and passport system since the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The region's separation from Moldova stems from tensions during the dissolution of the USSR, leading to an armed conflict in 1992. Since then, Transnistria has maintained deep political, military, and energetic ties to Russia. This relationship is characterized by the presence of Russian military forces and a historical dependence on Russian gas.

While the region operates with its own administrative structures, it lacks international recognition, with the exception of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. The geopolitical situation remains sensitive as Moldova pursues closer integration with the European Union.