Munteanu: Russian ambassador's drone response is arrogant and mocking
The Republic of Moldova must manage its relations with the Russian Federation "with firmness, but also prudence," states Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu.
He described the attitude of the designated Russian Ambassador, Oleg Ozerov, regarding the Russian drones falling on Moldovan territory as "arrogant" and "mocking." The Prime Minister maintains that the settlement of the Transnistria conflict must begin with the withdrawal of Russian troops, asserting that the "5+2 format is no longer functioning."
PM Munteanu Criticizes Russian Diplomat's 'Arrogant' Reaction to Drone Incidents
The Prime Minister openly criticized Ambassador Ozerov’s reactions following the illegal and repeated airspace violations by Russian drones. The diplomat had been repeatedly summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) headquarters in Chișinău.
"I am outraged by the way he reacts. He is openly derisive every time we inform him. His attitude in this tragic situation is very arrogant," Alexandru Munteanu stated during a December 4 broadcast on Jurnal TV. "It is like catching a person red-handed, and he tells you no, it wasn't him and that 'the drone is not ours.' It is clearly a mockery," Munteanu stressed.
He added that Ozerov "is not even officially accredited, and his status is very weak."
Chisinau Avoids Severing Diplomatic Ties
Despite the outrage, authorities are reluctant to completely sever diplomatic ties with Russia. "We do not want to burn the last bridge. We are all indignant, but we also have Moldovans living in Russia. We must consider multiple points of view," the Prime Minister explained.
Troop Withdrawal is the First Step for Transnistrian Settlement
Munteanu confirmed Chișinău's shift in its approach to the Transnistrian settlement, referencing a recent statement by Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration, Valeriu Chiveri.
"Two things must be absolutely clear: the former 5+2 format is not working, and we will not take violent measures. We are looking for a solution and we are working on it," the Prime Minister specified.
According to Munteanu, the process needs a clear objective: "I agree with Mr. Chiveri that the withdrawal of Russian troops from the territory is the first step. Not many are left there, but they are still present. After that, we can discuss."
Russia's Fading Interest in Transnistria
The Prime Minister also noted that Russia appears to be losing interest in the districts on the left bank of the Nistru river. "The Transnistrian region no longer seems very attractive to Russia. They would like to maintain a presence, but I believe they would concede under certain conditions. We are trying to use this moment," Munteanu concluded.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
