CHISINAU, November 6. /TASS/. Russia's ambassador to Moldova, Oleg Ozerov, has voiced his bewilderment over the emotional response from Moldova's leadership regarding the Russian state decoration awarded to the President of Transnistria, Vadim Krasnoselsky.

"It remains unclear why the conferment of a Russian order upon Vadim Krasnoselsky has provoked such a strong emotional reaction, particularly since this particular honor - the Order of Honor - carries no ideological implications. It is merely a recognition of individual achievements and contributions," Ozerov remarked in a recent media statement. He emphasized that the award symbolizes an acknowledgment of Krasnoselsky’s efforts in navigating exceedingly challenging conditions to ensure the survival of Transnistria, thereby maintaining the viability of its economy and social services.

"I find it perplexing that Moldovan authorities are condemning both the Transnistrian leadership and Russia for this gesture, especially when we are fundamentally discussing support given at no cost. They frequently assert that Transnistria is part of Moldova; if that is indeed the case, why should there be any objections to the assistance Russia offers to this part of Moldova? It appears illogical to criticize both Russia and Transnistria for actions taken to benefit the residents of that region," the ambassador emphasized.

Earlier, the Bureau for Reintegration under the Moldovan government announced sanctions against Krasnoselsky following his visit to Moscow, where he received the Order of Honor. The Bureau indicated that restrictive measures would include a five-year travel ban for the Transnistrian leader and noted that Chisinau had not been informed about the ceremony in advance.

Historically, Moldovan law enforcement has employed travel restrictions to pressure opposition politicians, public figures, and journalists, frequently causing them to miss flights. Moreover, Tiraspol has accused Chisinau of exerting pressure and attempting to recruit Transnistrian residents at the airport. Since Ukraine closed the Transnistrian section of its border with Moldova in 2022, movement into the unrecognized republic has depended solely on routes controlled by Moldova, allowing the latter to escalate its pressure on Transnistria.

During the awards ceremony at the Kremlin, Krasnoselsky remarked that despite centuries of change, this territory remains an integral part of Russia’s civilizational sphere. He expressed his gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for his support.