Each third Transnistrian feels confused about Russia recognizing Abkhazia and South Ossetia

One in three residents of Moldova's rebel region of Transnistria has confused feelings about Russia's recent decision to recognize the independence of two Georgian breakaway states – Abkhazia and South Ossetia, shows a poll carried out by the Tiraspol-based Center for Social Research New Age, Info-Prim Neo quotes the news agency Novy Region. At the same time, 44.4 percent of the respondents have expressed their joy and proud for the peoples of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Other 21.3 percent of the respondents expressed concern about the fate of the two republics. The rest were either unable to choose an answer or gave their own answer. Asked whether they think Russia will recognize Transnistria's independence as a consequent step after the recognition of the two Caucasian states, 13.1 percent answered affirmatively. A similar percentage – 13% - answered “no”; 32.3 percent answered “most likely” and 34 percent gave the opposite answer. The rest gave own versions of answers. In addition, more than a half of the respondents – 51.5 percent – think that the recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia boost Transnistria's chances to obtain a higher status than a broad autonomy. At the same time, 15.2 percent doubt that talks between Chisinau and Tiraspol will resume soon. An overwhelming majority of respondents – 69.7 percent – believe that the authority of the Russian Federation will increase as a result of its move, both internally and internationally. 20.2 percent think the move was injurious to Russia's image. The poll was conducted on a sample of 562 persons in Tiraspol, Bender, Rybnitsa and Slobozia, between August 27 and September 1.