Meeting of the Joint Control Commission in Bender

On 11 June 2026, discussions in the Joint Control Commission continued in Bender on the most pressing problems in the Security Zone, in particular ensuring freedom of movement and journalists’ access to the Commission’s activities.

The delegation of the Republic of Moldova returned to previously submitted requests initiated in November 2025 regarding the need to ensure freedom of movement near the village of Hîrbovăț, in the Anenii Noi District. It was emphasized that the progress of road repair works launched on 1 April 2026 on the route leading to a poultry complex has been slowed due to the movement of heavy freight transport along the section under reconstruction. To facilitate the completion of the works, residents, economic operators, and the local mayor’s office are requesting the use of an alternative route that has been unlawfully blocked by Transnistrian structures. The delegation of the Republic of Moldova recalled Article 5 of the Agreement of 21 July 1992, which provides for the removal of obstacles to the movement of goods, services, and people, and demanded the unimpeded passage of transport belonging to relevant economic operators.

During the discussion on compliance by the military contingent of the Republic of Moldova with general rules on wearing military uniforms, the Moldovan delegation noted that the use by Moldovan servicemen of epaulettes featuring the state flag of the Republic of Moldova is justified, lawful, and appropriate. The use by other servicemen of unapproved symbols, including insignia associated with military aggression, constitutes a violation of the fundamental acts governing the peacekeeping operation on the Nistru River and of the legislation of the Republic of Moldova. Over the years, violations have also been recorded related to military symbolism, unauthorized exercises, and the presence of Russian armored vehicles in the Security Zone, including non-compliance with the 2003 protocol providing for their withdrawal.

In this context, the representatives of Chișinău called for compliance with existing decisions and the swift implementation of the withdrawal of armored vehicles, reiterating their commitment to cooperation and maintaining stability in the Security Zone.

Delegation of the Republic of Moldova to the Joint Control Commission