Moldova is seen as a target of Russian destabilization operations. Moscow especially has its sights set on a part of Moldovan territory, Transnistria.
But it is Gagauzia that has attracted more media attention in recent days. The Russian decision to exploit the situation is not surprising, according to experts in Russia and Moldova. The former Soviet republic is wedged between Romania and Ukraine and does not benefit from NATO protection.. Among the 135,000 inhabitants of the region, most are Turkish- Orthodox Christians. Almost a third of the population holds Russian nationality.