The conspiracy to attack Moldova by VLADIMIR PUTIN has been uncovered as Russia outlines the “second stage” of its deadly conflict in Ukraine.

According to Rustam Minnekaev, deputy commander of the Central Military District, the Russian army intends to establish full authority over the Donbas and Southern Ukraine, as well as to secure a land corridor to Crimea. He also warned that regaining control of Southern Ukraine would provide Russian soldiers another route into Moldova’s pro-Russian breakaway territory of Transdniestria, which borders Ukraine. Kyiv is concerned that this could be used as a launchpad for fresh attacks.

Minnekaev stated at the annual meeting of the Sverdlovsk Region Union of Defense Industry Enterprises: “One of the Russian army’s tasks since the start of the second phase of the special operation, which began just two days ago, has been to establish full control over the Donbas and Southern Ukraine.

“This will provide a land corridor to the Crimea, as well as influence the vital facilities of the Ukrainian military forces, the Black Sea ports, through which agricultural and metallurgical products are supplied to other countries.

“Control over the South of Ukraine is another outlet to Transnistria, where there are also facts of oppression of the Russian-speaking population.

“Apparently, we are now at war with the whole world, as it was in the Great Patriotic War, the whole of Europe, the whole world was against us.

“And now it’s the same, they never liked Russia.”

He added: “Control over the south of Ukraine is another way to Transdniestria, where there is also evidence that the Russian-speaking population is being oppressed.”

Earlier this month, Kyiv said that an airfield in the region was being readied for Russian forces to bring in troops heading for Ukraine.

However, both Moldova’s defense ministry and Transdniestria’s leadership refuted the charges.

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