CHISINAU — Moldova's parliament has called on international partners negotiating a settlement with the breakaway Transdnestr republic to stop separatists from seizing territory in eastern Moldova.
Lawmakers adopted a statement late Friday urging the U.S., the European Union, Russia, Ukraine and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe to "resolve the situation in Transdnestr through political and peaceful means, respecting democratic … principles."
Earlier this month, separatist leader Yevgeny Shevchuk signed legislation that would expand Transdnestr to include eight Moldovan villages, saying he would do everything possible to make sure the legislation came into effect.
Moldovan Defense Minister Vitalie Marinuta said the army would respond to any attack on its territory, adding he did not think the situation would escalate into an armed conflict.
