Tensions are rising on one small part of Europe.

20:51, Fri, Dec 26, 2025 Updated: 20:56, Fri, Dec 26, 2025

Putin waving

Some people in Gaguzia are pro-Russia while others are pro-EU (Image: Getty Images)

One tiny region in Europe has been weighing up joining the EU or siding with Putin. Located in the borders of Moldova, Gagauzia, is an autonomous region with a unique identity and a complex history. 

Known as the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia, this region is a cultural enclave with its own language, traditions, and political aspirations. According to reports, Gagauzia declared its independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union, but then returned to Moldova as an autonomous area. However, political disagreements have not disappeared and even until today, issues linger. Tensions have risen due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Pro-Russian governor of Moldova's Gagauzia region, Evghenia Gutul

Pro-Russian governor of Moldova's Gagauzia region, Evghenia Gutul (Image: Getty Images)

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But after a referendum to see whether Gagauzia would like to join the EU, an overwhelming 95% of people voted no, with people leaning more towards Russia, reports DW.

The referendum took place in 2024. Results revealed that most people in the tiny region are pro-Russia despite support from the EU and the war in Ukraine.

“Gagauzia wants to be a friend of Russia,” said Valentina, a middle-aged woman with Ukrainian roots, while sorting receipts on a park bench in Comrat, the capital of Gagauzia.

The rejection of the EU was a notable result, with even over a third of people in the pro-Russia breakaway region of Transnistria, where Russian troops have been stationed for over 30 years, voting in favour of joining the EU.

Gagauzia protest

Within the region, tensions have risen (Image: Getty Images)

On June 25, 2024, the EU began its negotiations with Moldova which marked a significant step in the country’s deepening integration into Euro-Atlantic structures, reports say.

Recent tensions between Gagauzia and Moldova’s central government have escalated mainly because of President Maia Sandu's solid pro-Ukrainian stance and aspirations to join the EU.

However, the governor of Moldova's Gagauzia region, Evghenia Gutul is pro-Russia.

Moldova is a landlocked country lying in the northeastern corner of the Balkan region of Europe. 

The future of its autonomous region, Gagauzia, remains uncertain.