Budanov assessed Russia’s chances of breaking through to Transnistria

Budanov assessed Russia’s chances of breaking through to Transnistria

The head of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), Kyrylo Budanov, said that Russia’s desire to establish control over Transnistria is a long-standing dream, but that a breakthrough into the region is unrealistic at the moment.

He mentioned this in an interview.

According to Budanov, the Russians aim to strengthen their influence in Moldova; however, the elections scheduled for September 28, 2025, will not alter their plans to attempt to breach a corridor to Transnistria. At the same time, the head of the DIU emphasized that Ukraine is not standing aside and is also taking action in this direction.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu has already warned about possible Russian interference in the electoral process. Specifically, at the end of July, the Moldovan authorities blocked the HaiTV app, which broadcast prohibited Russian TV channels ahead of the elections.

Budanov noted: "The fact that Russia wants to have more influence in Moldova than it currently does is obvious to everyone. It is already trying to do so and will continue to do so. What will come of it - we will see; we too are not sitting idle."