Welcome back to Foreign Policy’s SitRep! Jack here, in charge on leap day as Robbie remains in India. Here’s a rundown of the day’s news: Another breakaway pro-Russian region seeks help from the Kremlin, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell announces his resignation from the role, and the Pentagon chief faces criticism in Congress for failing to inform President Joe Biden of his hospitalization.
In the tiny Black Sea region of Transnistria, sandwiched between Moldova and Ukraine, leader Vadim Krasnoselsky called for Russian assistance at an extraordinary session of the Congress of Deputies, noting alleged violations by Moldova. Lawmakers voted in favor of requesting Russia’s help, sparking concern in the West. While Russian President Vladimir Putin has not indicated annexation plans, tensions remain high. Moldova’s ambassador to the U.S. downplayed fears of annexation, attributing the call for Russian aid to a desire for financial support.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry accused Moldova and the West of escalating the situation with baseless claims. Transnistria’s leaders cite the need to protect Russian speakers, echoing Russia’s rationale for its invasion of Ukraine. Concerns persist about a potential conflict in the region, which hosts Russian troops from the former Soviet era.
Moldova braces for possible election interference from Russia, bolstering defense and investing in countermeasures against disinformation. McConnell’s resignation and key personnel appointments, including Adm. Sir Tony Radakin’s extended tenure as the U.K. defense chief, reflect ongoing geopolitical shifts. Biden’s selections for special envoys underscore the administration’s focus on international economics and conflict resolution. Stay tuned for more updates on these evolving developments in global affairs.
