Moldova expresses "deep concern" over Russian general's Transnistria comments

• Minnekayev also claimed that the Moldovan government was oppressing the Russian-speaking population in Transnistria, echoing a claim that the Kremlin has used in its attempt to justify its unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.
• Moldova, like Ukraine, is not a member of the European Union or the NATO.

What they're saying: Moldova's Foreign Ministry said it summoned Oleg Vasnetov, the Russian ambassador to Moldova, in response to Minnekayev's comments.

• "These statements are unfounded and contradict the position of the Russian Federation supporting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova, within its internationally recognized borders," it said.
• "During the meeting, it was reiterated that the Republic of Moldova, in line with its Constitution, is a neutral state and this principle must be respected by all international actors, including the Russian Federation."

The big picture: Russia does not officially recognize the independence of Transnistria, but it does maintain a special relationship with the region, including stationing troops there.

• Russia recognized two breakaway "republics" in eastern Ukraine as independent before invading the country to conduct "peacekeeping operations" in the separatist regions.
• Russia's invasion of Ukraine has galvanized traditionally neutral countries, including Finland and Sweden, into expressing interest in joining NATO or the EU or both.

Go deeper: Moldova, Ukraine's "most fragile" neighbor, welcomes Western wake-up call