A separatist region in Moldova seeks Russian protection. The authorities of the breakaway region of Transnistria issued an official declaration requesting protection from Russia against the Moldova government.
The region has not been under the control of the Moldovan authorities since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. It is ruled by separatists described as inclined to unite with Russia. The region bordering Ukraine has not received any international recognition of its independence, and there are about 1,500 Russian soldiers there by unilateral decision.