Transnistria: The Breakaway State Between Moldova and Ukraine
Nestled in a narrow strip of land between the Dniester River and the eastern border of Moldova with Ukraine lies Transnistria. This region exists as a breakaway state, operating independently from the central government of Moldova despite lacking formal recognition from the international community.
The region is officially known by its local administration as the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (PMR), or Pridnestrovie. Both the terms "Transnistria" and "Pridnestrovie" literally refer to the Dniester River, signifying the land located beyond or beside the river.
The Political Status of Transnistria
Transnistria declared its independence in 1990. This move led to the War of Transnistria in 1992, a conflict that solidified the region's separation from Moldova. Today, it is a state with limited recognition, meaning it functions as a sovereign entity with its own government, but is not recognized by any member state of the United Nations.
From the perspective of the Republic of Moldova, the region is designated as the Transnistria autonomous territorial unit with special legal status (Unitatea teritorială autonomă cu statut juridic special Transnistria), often referred to as Stînga Nistrului, which translates to the "Left Bank of the Dniester."
Territorial Claims and Geography
The PMR claims territory primarily to the east of the Dniester River. However, its claims also extend to the west bank of the river in the historical region of Bessarabia, specifically including the city of Bender (also known as Tighina) and its surrounding localities.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Local Name | Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (PMR) |
| International Status | Unrecognized by UN member states |
| Moldovan Designation | Autonomous territorial unit with special legal status |
| Key Geographic Marker | Dniester River |
| Key City Claimed | Bender (Tighina) |
Key Facts
- Independence: Declared in 1990.
- Conflict: The War of Transnistria took place in 1992.
- Recognition: No United Nations member state recognizes its independence.
- Geography: Located between the Dniester River and the Ukrainian border.
- Territory: Claims land east of the Dniester and the city of Bender to the west.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Transnistria?
Transnistria is a breakaway state located between the Dniester River and the border of Ukraine, governed as the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (PMR).
Is Transnistria recognized as a country?
No, Transnistria is not recognized as a sovereign state by any member of the United Nations.
What happened during the War of Transnistria?
The War of Transnistria occurred in 1992 following the region's 1990 declaration of independence from Moldova.
What does the name "Transnistria" mean?
The name refers to the Dniester River, essentially meaning the land across or beside the river.
Which cities are part of Transnistria's claims?
In addition to the territory east of the Dniester, the PMR claims the city of Bender (Tighina) and surrounding areas on the west bank in Bessarabia.