MOLDOVA PROTESTS RUSSIA OVER PLAN TO OPEN 16 VOTING STATIONS IN TRANSNISTRIA
Date: September 4, 2026
Country: Moldova
Category: Moldova News / International Affairs
Chisinau Rejects Russia’s Plan for Additional Election Polling Stations
CHISINAU: Moldova has formally protested Russia’s plan to establish 16 polling stations in the left-bank districts of the Dniester for Russia’s upcoming State Duma elections.
Moldova’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Russia’s designated ambassador on September 3 and handed him an official protest note. Chisinau said any foreign electoral activity conducted on Moldovan territory requires prior and explicit approval from the country’s constitutional authorities.
The ministry said Moldova recognizes the right of Russian citizens living within its territory to participate in elections organized by their country. However, officials stressed that such voting arrangements must respect Moldova’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
According to the Moldovan authorities, only one polling station has been authorized so far—the station located at Russia’s embassy in Chisinau.
The disagreement is particularly sensitive because the proposed additional stations would be located in the Transnistrian region, an area outside the effective control of Moldova’s constitutional authorities.
Moldovan officials have described the proposed unauthorized polling stations as an unfriendly action and urged Moscow not to proceed with them.
Russia’s State Duma elections are scheduled for September 18–20, giving the diplomatic dispute a clear deadline.
The episode adds another layer to the already complicated relationship between Chisinau and Moscow. Moldova has repeatedly emphasized the importance of protecting its sovereignty while managing relations with Russia and the unresolved Transnistrian issue.
The Moldovan government is expected to continue monitoring developments and communicating with international partners as the Russian election approaches.
What Happens Next
Moldovan authorities will continue diplomatic efforts to prevent polling stations from being opened without authorization in the Transnistrian region. The issue is likely to remain under close attention until the Russian elections conclude.
