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00:00 This checkpoint leads to Transnistria.
00:03 The pro-Russian Moldovan region unilaterally declared its independence in 1991.
00:09 Now its authorities are asking Russia and the United Nations for economic protection.
00:14 They accuse Moldova of economic pressure after the introduction of a new customs tax.
00:19 "Our authorities are saying that Moldova doesn't compromise, that it is blocking our
00:26 trucks and not letting them pass.
00:29 That's what's happening and our economy is suffering a lot because of it."
00:38 Residents from Transnistria regularly come to Varnitsa for medical care or groceries.
00:44 After the invasion of Ukraine, some fear for the future of their region.
00:49 "The situation isn't very good in Transnistria.
00:53 The region is blocked on both sides, Moldova on one side and Ukraine on the other.
00:58 If Transnistria unites with Russia, the consequences will be bad for Transnistria."
01:06 Russian troops are present in Transnistria as part of a peacekeeping mission following
01:11 a conflict in 1992 between the separatist region and Moldova.
01:16 Ever since, Transnistrians have been living in peace with their neighbours.
01:20 "We are not scared.
01:22 Everything is good here.
01:24 There is nothing to say.
01:25 We have our brothers there.
01:27 We have brothers and cousins here as well."
01:30 Moldovan authorities believe Taraspo's accusations are the result of Russian propaganda.
01:36 The government says there is no immediate security threat in Transnistria.
01:40 "There are 1,800 soldiers led by Russia.
01:45 There is the so-called Transnistrian army.
01:48 There are militias and an impressive ammunition stock in Kobasno.
01:53 We can't say we are fully out of danger.
01:57 But the situation is not spectacular nor extremely dangerous.
02:01 But in any case, we have to take into account all the potential dangers coming from this
02:06 region."
02:07 Chichinho now wants to reintegrate Transnistria into the country's economy.
02:12 In December, Moldova started negotiations to join the European Union.
02:16 [BLANK_AUDIO]