Suchergebnisse

Examines the political situation in the self-proclaimed Dnestr Moldovan Republic (Pridnestrovskaya Moldavskaya Respublika [PMR] or Transnistria), where the minority Slavic groups of Ukrainians & Russians represent the majority of the population. Focus is on the PMR's relationship with Moldova proper, neighboring states such as Ukraine & Romania, & Russia, particularly since the communist victory in the Mar 2005 Moldovan parliamentary elections. Elements of Moldovan foreign policy that impact Transnistrian politics are explored & the conflictual dynamics of the Transnistrian civil war -- which has persisted since the PMR declared independence in 1991 -- are detailed, especially in terms of international relations. An in-depth case study is offered of the Mar 2006 conflict over border controls & the use of Moldovan customs stamps. Adapted from the source document.

The ramifications of Kosovo's & Montenegro's respective independence movements for Balkan regional politics are considered. Although negotiations between Kosovar & Serbian officials have continued throughout 2006, several factors that will obstruct Serbia's recognition of Kosovo as a sovereign nation are highlighted including the historical importance of Kosovo to Serbian civilization. Indeed, it is contended that the negotiations will likely result in an impasse & the United Nations Security Council will determine the extent of Kosovo's independence largely upon the impending recommendation of former Finnish president Martti Ahtisaari, who is overseeing the talks; the question of whether the representatives of the Peoples Republic of China & Russia will support monitored independence for Kosovo is then pondered. Additional attention is dedicated to examining the conditions for Montenegro's independence & the implications of an outcome on the May 2006 referendum in which majority support for independence is reached but the 55% pro-independence threshold is not met. J. W. Parker