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Russia Simulates WWII Offensive, Reportedly Plans 10,000 Troops in Moldova’s Breakaway Region Near NATO
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
Russia is reportedly seeking to expand its military presence in the breakaway region of Transnistria, with plans to increase its current force from approximately 1,500 to as many as 10,000 personnel. The move coincides with a provocative military exercise simulating a Soviet-era assault on Bucharest.
According to Defense Express on June 12, Russian forces in Transnistria recently conducted a mock operation replicating the 1944 Jassy–Kishinev offensive, which historically ended with Soviet troops entering the Romanian capital.
The drill was held in a demilitarized security zone near Tiraspol, violating multiple bilateral and international agreements. Reports note that 13 artillery systems and 16 additional military vehicles were involved in the exercise.
Defense Romania stated that artillery fire was audible in Chisinau, but Moldovan and Romanian observers were not permitted access to the area.
The publication stressed that this event should not be viewed merely as a “historical reenactment” but as a deliberate display of force targeting both Moldova and Romania.
The potential increase in troop numbers is reportedly linked to Russia’s efforts to install a pro-Kremlin government in Moldova, which could facilitate further military deployments.
Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean, citing national intelligence, warned that Moscow is spending the equivalent of 1% of Moldova’s GDP on political operations to influence the country’s internal affairs.
While The Military Balance 2024 notes that the exact size of the Russian contingent in Transnistria is difficult to verify, it estimates the presence of 1,500 troops supported by Mi-8 and Mi-24 helicopters. To date, there has been no significant international response to these developments.
Analysts warn that Russia’s actions in Transnistria represent a broader strategic message to the Balkan region.
Earlier, on January 7, 2025, Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean stated that the reintegration of Transnistria must begin with the withdrawal of Russian troops, calling their presence a key obstacle to peace. He proposed replacing them with international peacekeepers as part of a broader plan to restore Moldova’s control over the region.
