This case study examines patterns in the so-called "frozen conflict" in Transnistria and separatism in the Donbas. It aims to investigate similarities and distinctions in the pro-Russian secessionist movements in both regions, and geopolitical outcomes. An overview of the establishment of the self-proclaimed republics of Transnistria (Moldova, 1990) and Donbas (Ukraine, 2014) will be followed by an analysis of the secession wars in both countries and discussion of the diplomatic efforts to end them. Dr. Baidaus' findings suggest that although Moldova and Ukraine share some commonalities in their problems caused by Moscow-backed separatists, there are nevertheless distinct features that make them differ in this respect.
Dr. Eduard Baidaus specializes in Imperial Russia, the Soviet Union, and post-Soviet/Communist states. He holds a Ph.D. from the Department of History and Classics, University of Alberta. His doctoral dissertation, "Nation-Building and Separatism in Eastern Europe: The Transnistria Problem in Moldova and in the Geopolitics of Russia, Ukraine, Romania, and the European Union (1917-2014)," was defended in 2017. Prior to his academic engagement at the University of Alberta, he earned a doctoral degree from the Academy of Sciences of Moldova (1995).