The Transnistria War
Moldova's independence in 1991 raised the prospect of unification with Romania, which alarmed the Russian- and Ukrainian-speaking industrial districts on the left bank of the Dniester. Transnistria declared its own separation in 1990, and clashes escalated into open war in the spring of 1992, culminating at Bender in June. The Russian 14th Army, stationed there since Soviet times and commanded by Alexander Lebed, intervened openly in July and imposed a ceasefire on terms favourable to the separatists. No settlement has followed in more than thirty years. Transnistria maintains its own currency, border controls and security services, is recognised by no UN member, and hosts both Russian peacekeepers and a large Soviet-era ammunition depot. Moldova's constitution declares permanent neutrality, and the frozen conflict has been the standing obstacle to any move toward NATO or the EU.
- Year: 1992 CE
- Category: Military
