Russia opens controversial polling stations in Moldova's Transnistria

The presidential elections in Russia are scheduled to take place from March 15 to March 17. Moscow has declared that polling stations will be opened in the separatist region of Transnistria without the approval from Chisinau. The Moldovan authorities have accused Russian diplomats of illegally producing voting cards.

Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister Oleg Serebrian, who manages Chisinau's relations with the separatist region, told Reuters: - It's more probable that the ballots were created here (in Transnistria) to bypass transporting them across the border. Serebrian highlighted that Moldova's borders are tightly monitored, making it impossible to legally bring in ballots.

This incident is the latest in a series of controversies related to Russia's decision to establish six polling locations in Transnistria. Chisinau did not give its consent. The only polling station allowed was at the Russian embassy in Moldova's capital.

Moscow's move has been criticized for undermining Moldova's sovereignty and territorial integrity. As a result, the Moldovan Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged a formal protest with the Russian ambassador on Tuesday.

From March 15 to March 17 in Russia, "elections" for the presidency are underway, with Vladimir Putin, aiming for another term, certain to win. Reuters recalls that during the parliamentary elections in Russia in 2021, 21 voting stations were opened in Transnistria without Chisinau's agreement.

Source: PAP