Moldovan Parliament Speaker declares 5+2 Transnistrian settlement format obsolete amid Russian aggression
Moldovan Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu has called for a fundamental shift in the Transnistrian settlement process, labeling the long-standing "5+2" negotiation format as "dead." The Speaker cited Russia’s status as an aggressor state in Ukraine as the primary reason for the mechanism's irrelevance.
Speaking on Jurnal TV, Grosu emphasized that the current "1+1" direct dialogue between Chisinau and Tiraspol remains the only functional channel. However, he stressed that this format is insufficient for a comprehensive political solution to the frozen conflict.
A defunct diplomatic framework
The "5+2" format, which included Moldova, Transnistria, the OSCE, Russia, and Ukraine, with the EU and US as observers, has faced total paralysis since 2022. Grosu noted that even prior to the invasion, the mechanism failed to produce tangible results for regional stability.
"This format is obsolete," Grosu stated. He highlighted the logical contradiction of having the Russian Federation—an aggressor invading a fellow participant, Ukraine—act as a mediator in the peace process.
Seeking Western involvement
The Moldovan authorities are now advocating for a new paradigm that integrates key geopolitical stakeholders. Chisinau aims to include Romania, the European Union, the United States, and Ukraine in a more robust and security-focused negotiation framework.
Grosu’s remarks follow a recent meeting in Tiraspol between Moldova’s Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration, Valeriu Chiveri, and Transnistrian representative Vitali Ignatiev. While described as "useful," the talks yielded no concrete breakthroughs regarding the political impasse.
Strategic resistance from Tiraspol
Deputy PM Chiveri echoed these sentiments, noting that the "5+2" format is being maintained by Tiraspol and Moscow merely as a formal platform to promote separatist interests. Chisinau remains firm that any future settlement requires a durable solution backed by partners who hold genuine geopolitical leverage.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
