Chisinau, Moldova – Tensions are rising between Moldova’s central government and the autonomous region of Gagauzia, as local authorities explore closer ties with Russia amid ongoing geopolitical shifts. The region, with a population of approximately 140,000, is overwhelmingly Russian-speaking despite its Turkic ethnic roots.

Gagauzia,officially known as the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia (ATU Gagauzia),is located in the south of Moldova,bordering Ukraine. Its capital is Comrat.The Gagauz people, historically nomadic Oghuz Turks, settled in the region in the 18th and 19th centuries.Following the collapse of the Soviet Union and Moldova’s declaration of independence in 1991, Gagauzia initially resisted Chisinau’s authority, fearing marginalization and a potential union with Romania. A referendum in 1994 resulted in the granting of broad autonomy, including its own flag, anthem, and coat of arms, and also the right to maintain direct relations with other states.

Since gaining autonomy, Gagauzia’s leadership, currently headed by Governor Evghenia Gutul, elected in September 2023, has consistently voiced concerns over Moldova’s pro-Western trajectory, particularly its aspirations to join the European Union. These concerns center on potential economic disadvantages and the preservation of the region’s Russian language and cultural identity. The region relies heavily on trade with Russia and Ukraine, and a significant portion of its population holds Russian citizenship.

The region underwent considerable Russification during its incorporation into the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic (MSSR). This process involved the promotion of the Russian language in education, administration, and public life, leading to a decline in the use of the Gagauz language and a strengthening of cultural ties with Russia. Today, Russian remains the dominant language in everyday life and media.

Recent disputes between Comrat and Chisinau have focused on issues such as the implementation of language laws, the distribution of budgetary funds, and Gagauzia’s foreign policy orientation. Governor Gutul has repeatedly called for a referendum on the region’s future, including the possibility of seeking closer integration with Russia, a move strongly opposed by the Moldovan government. Moldova’s President Maia Sandu has warned against any attempts to destabilize the country and has emphasized the importance of respecting Moldova’s territorial integrity. The situation is further elaborate by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the presence of Russian troops in the breakaway region of Transnistria, which borders Gagauzia.