# Moldova-Russia tensions over Transnistria > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/moldova-russia-tensions-over-transnistria > Updated: 2026-09-12T10:38:57.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. Moldovan authorities have intensified diplomatic and security concerns regarding Russian influence and military presence in the Transnistria region. In early September, Chisinau issued a protest note to the Russian Federation after separatist leaders in Tiraspol announced plans to open 17 unauthorized polling stations for the Russian State Duma elections. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Mihai Popsoi described the move as an “unfriendly act,” noting that Moldova had only authorized a single polling station at the Russian Embassy in Chisinau. Following this, Moldovan officials reiterated demands for the withdrawal of Russian troops and the demilitarization of Transnistria. Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration Valeriu Chiveri highlighted the security risks posed by foreign military forces and arms depots operating outside the control of constitutional authorities. This includes the Cobasna ammunition depot, which reportedly contains approximately 14,000 tons of ammunition, including 2,800 tons of active explosives. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-12: Moldova demands Russian troop withdrawal and Transnistria demilitarization Moldova maintains its demand for the withdrawal of Russian troops and the demilitarization of Transnistria, citing security concerns over uncontrolled ammunition depots in Cobasna. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-demands-russian-troop-withdrawal-and-transnistria-demilitarization ### 2026-09-03: Moldova issues protest note to Russia over unauthorized polling stations Moldova has issued a protest note to Russia after plans emerged to open unauthorized polling stations in Transnistria for the Russian State Duma elections. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/moldova-issues-protest-note-to-russia-over-unauthorized-polling-stations --- Cite as: Moldova-Russia tensions over Transnistria. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/moldova-russia-tensions-over-transnistria