According to Alexander Andreev, the Russian co-chairman of the Joint Control Commission (JCC) for the management of the peacekeeping operation, Russia bears a special historical responsibility for ensuring peace on the territory of Transnistria, especially on the banks of the Dniester River. He emphasized that without Russia’s participation, a settlement of the conflict in this region is not possible.
Andreev emphasized the importance of the region for Russia, as it is inhabited by people with whom the country has close ties. That is why Russia remains the main participant of the peacekeeping operation and the peace guarantee process. He noted that the peacekeeping operation has already successfully continued for 31 years and includes various components such as JCCC, military observers and peacekeeping posts.
Russian peacekeepers were brought into the Transnistrian conflict zone in accordance with an agreement signed with Moldova in 1992. They managed to stop armed clashes between Moldovan police and Transnistrian militia. At the moment, the Russian military is working together with the blue helmets of Moldova and the unrecognized republic to maintain peace in the region.
Also in the region is the Operational Group of Russian Troops (OGRV), which consists of approximately 1,000 soldiers and officers. One of its main tasks is to guard ammunition depots that were moved there after the Soviet withdrawal from Europe. The OGRV also supports peacekeepers who have been stranded after Ukraine cut off their supply routes through its territory.
