Transnistria
The Russian Ministry of Defence stated at a recent briefing that the “land bridge” between the Donbas and Crimea is complete. A system of road and rail lines is being established.
Infrastructure is established between Russia, the Donbass, Ukraine, and Crimea. An automobile connection was opened from the territory of the Russian Federation through the mainland to Crimea. This plan was developed back in April of this year. The priority was to control the south of Ukraine and the Donbas.
US Director of National Intelligence Avril Haynes noted that the creation of the bridge was an initiative of Vladimir Putin and his generals. She also noted that this plan is much more strategic and large-scale, as Putin expects the arc to connect Russian-controlled territory in Moldova and the Donbas. The U.S. intelligence believes that this concept has a place, but the territory of Moldova acts as a bridgehead for further troop movement to northern Ukraine. Also, the U.S. military fears further Russian advance into the West.
Haynes stated: “It is our assessment that President Putin is preparing for a protracted conflict in Ukraine in which he still intends to achieve objectives beyond the Donbass.”
The U.S. is very excited about a land bridge to Transnistria. At this point, however, it remains unclear whether Russia is aiming to extend its control beyond Ukraine into Transnistria, as predicted by the U.S. intelligence. That would mean a possible extension of the land bridge across the entire south of Ukraine, including the important port city of Odessa.
