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Listen to Oasis perform together for first time in 16 YEARS as band play Cigarettes and Alcohol in top secret rehearsals

SINCE the tickets for OASIS’ reunion went on sale last year, the hottest topic amongst us fans has been what songs NOEL and LIAM GALLAGHER will perform.

And now I can exclusively reveal that the fourth and final single from their debut album Definitely Maybe, the brilliant Cigarettes And Alcohol has made the cut.

Liam Gallagher of Oasis performing live on stage.
Getty
Liam Gallagher could be heard belting out Cigarettes and Alcohol at Oasis’s first full rehearsal session[/caption]
Noel Gallagher near his home in Maida Vale.
Doug Seeburg
Noel Gallagher is said to be loving having the band back together[/caption]

Our exclusive video of the band, which you can watch on The Sun’s website, playing the track inside the rehearsal studio in London told me everything I needed to know about the reunion so far – and I can confirm they sound incredible.

An onlooker who heard the rehearsal told me: “Oasis have never sounded better.

“They were playing Cigarettes And Alcohol and Liam’s vocals sounded really good, which is probably down to the two packets of Lockets he was sucking throughout the rehearsal.

“You could hear Noel’s lead guitar really well and he sounded so good too.

“To hear them playing live, and playing so loudly, was an incredible moment.”

Today I showed you pictures of the brothers going in to rehearse together for the first time since Oasis split back in 2009.

While Noel hopped on the tube, Liam was driven in by a car – with him joking to a fan “I’m afraid of getting mobbed, I’m really famous.”

The motormouth rocker also took the mick out of Noel’s rather glum expression and said: “He’s laughing [and] giggling telling jokes.


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“Couldn’t shut him up yesterday. Time of his life.”

The brothers will kick off their tour in Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on July 4, with BONEHEAD, ANDY BELL, GEM ARCHER and JOEY WARONKER.

Naturally the reunion made history, with over 10 million fans trying to get their hands on the British shows alone.

Every show, including those in the USA, South America and Australia, all sold out within minutes of going on sale.

But those not lucky enough to get a ticket will be able to get in on the action thanks to a huge concert film being put together by Peaky Blinders creator STEVEN KNIGHT.

I’m already counting down the days until the first night but watching this video has sent me over the edge.

Group portrait of the British rock band Oasis.
Getty
The ban last played together 16 years ago[/caption]
Noel Gallagher on a London Tube train.
Click News and Media
Noel travelled to the session on the Tube[/caption]
Liam and Noel Gallagher of Oasis performing on stage.
Getty
The brothers healed their feud last year[/caption]

Oasis 2025 tour dates

OASIS brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher have revealed a 17 gig comeback tour next summer - here are the details

The Wonderwall hitmakers will delight crowds as follows:

JULY 2025
4th – Cardiff, Principality Stadium
5th – Cardiff, Principality Stadium
11th – Manchester, Heaton Park
12th – Manchester, Heaton Park

16th – Manchester, Heaton Park
19th – Manchester, Heaton Park
20th – Manchester, Heaton Park
25th – London, Wembley Stadium
26th – London, Wembley Stadium

30th – London, Wembley Stadium

AUGUST 2025
2nd – London, Wembley Stadium
3rd – London, Wembley Stadium
8th – Edinburgh, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium
9th – Edinburgh, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium

12th – Edinburgh, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium
16th – Dublin, Croke Park
17th – Dublin, Croke Park

SEPTEMBER 2025
27th – London, Wembley Stadium
28th – London, Wembley Stadium

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Win a share of 1 million free spins over the next month with Sun Vegas

PLAY with Sun Vegas for the chance to win free spins over the next five weeks. 

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DO YOU KNOW HOW TO PLAY CRAZY EIGHTS?

Those lucky enough to win will be awarded between five and 5000 free spins. There will be 15,199 winners per draw. 

Illustration of a 1 million free spins giveaway with a top prize of 5000 free spins.

When?

The 1 million free spin promo runs from Monday 26th May to Sunday 29th June. Each week you must qualify for that week’s prize draw.

The prize draws take place each following Monday. 

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You can qualify for the prize draw by staking a cumulative £25 on any of the slots at Sun Vegas

THIS LUCKY PLAYER WON OVER £19,000 AT SUN VEGAS

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Why?

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FIVE SUGGESTED ONLINE CASINO GAMES THAT YOU CAN PLAY

How do I get my free spins?

If you win free spins, you will receive a pop-up message that you must accept.

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Please be aware that the value of the free spins will be the minimum bet amount of the eligible games. All winnings are credited as cash. 

There are no wagering requirements attached to the winnings of the free spins but the free spins do expire seven days after issue.

WHAT WILL YOU WIN AT SUN VEGAS?

Terms and Conditions: There will be 136,000 free spins in each weekly prize draw. Monday to Sunday from 26/05/25 to 29/06/25. No wagering requirements. Opt in once, deposit £10 and stake a minimum of £25 cash each week. 18+. T&Cs apply.

*New customers only. Register today, deposit and spend £10 to receive £50 bonus (accept within 48 hours and wager 30x within 30 days on selected games only). Bonus amount cannot be withdrawn, for wagering only. Offer ends 31.07.25. T&Cs apply.

Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply.

Remember to gamble responsibly 

A responsible gambler is someone who: 

  • Establishes time and monetary limits before playing 
  • Only gambles with money they can afford to lose 
  • Never chases their losses 
  • Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressed 
  • Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk 
  • Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org 

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. 

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

About the author

Katrina Vasey - Bingo Editor, The Sun

After graduating from Southampton University with a degree in English Literature, Katrina Vasey worked as a Content Editor for Law Business Research’s publication the International Law Office. Katrina joined The Sun in 2022 as the Bingo Editor, covering the four gaming platforms: Sun BingoFabulous BingoSun Vegas and Fabulous Vegas

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Huge radio DJ signs up for Celebrity Bake Off alongside Molly-Mae Hague and JoJo Siwa

RADIO fans are in for a treat as one huge star from the airways has signed up for the celebrity version of The Great British Bake Off.

The Sun can exclusively reveal that the famous DJ is preparing to don an apron and try her luck in the iconic tent.

A popular radio DJ has signed for Celebrity Great British Bake Off
Edith Bowman at the European premiere of "The Amateur".
Getty
Edith Bowman will be trying her luck in the tent[/caption]

Edith Bowman is the latest star to sign up to the Channel 4 show and will be whipping up a storm alongside some big names.

Scots-born Edith, 51, will be joined in the Celebrity GBBO tent by stars including Molly-Mae Hague and JoJo Siwa.

Sources believe mum-of-two Edith, who hosts BBC3 Unwind, will do well in the tent because she’s used to “juggling” while live on air.

A TV insider said: “Edith always goes down a treat with viewers.

“She’s warm, enthusiastic and a lot of fun, and show bosses are delighted to have her on board.

“Her radio day job sees her juggling lots of different things all at once so it should stand her in good stead when she films her episode in the tent.”

News of Edith’s signing comes just days after The Sun revealed Molly-Mae Hague will be taking part in the next celebrity version of Bake Off.

The former Love Island star turned businesswoman will be one of the biggest stars taking part in the Stand Up To Cancer spin-off of the cookery contest.

Other Love Islanders who’ve been on the Bake Off spin off have included former contestant Ovie Soko and former host Laura Whitmore.

Meanwhile, another famous face who will be whipping up a storm is JoJo Siwa.

Fresh from her Celebrity Big Brother stint, the 22-year-old Dance Moms star has returned to the UK to secretly film the C4 show.

Babatunde Aleshe will also be bringing the laughs to the tent.

The 38-year-old Celebrity Gogglebox favourite has a good relationship with Channel 4 bosses and it is understood they are thrilled to sign him.


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The celebrity version of Bake Off, whose participants have yet to be confirmed by C4, is being made just before filming of the ‘civilian’ version gets underway.

Noel Fielding and Alison Hammond will be returning to host, while Paul Hollywood coming back to give the celebs some serious scrutiny in the tent.

Channel 4 star Prue Leith has stepped back from all GBBO specials, with cooking expert and pal Caroline Waldegrave filling her shoes.

The Stand Up To Cancer celeb special is due to air this summer.

Edith Bowman at the Ivor Novello Awards.
Getty
Bake Off bosses are delighted to have Edith on board[/caption]
Molly-Mae Hague at the EE BAFTA Film Awards.
Getty
Molly-Mae Hague has also signed up to the celebrity special[/caption]
Jojo Siwa arriving at Capital Radio Studios.
Getty
JoJo Siwa is also in the UK to secretly film the show[/caption]

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Man Utd transfer news LIVE: Red Devils ‘chasing Kudus SWAP’, Mbeumo wage demands revealed, Napoli ‘want Martinez’

MANCHESTER UNITED are set to undergo a huge change during the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils are chasing West Ham star Mohammed Kudus, with outcast winger Jadon Sancho as part of a swap deal on the cards.

Elsewhere, Bryan Mbuemo wants wages of £250,000-a-week if he leaves Brentford, according to reports.

In other news, Napoli reportedly want Lisandro Martinez, but the Argentine is uninterested in a move to the Italian champions.

CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS

Follow ALL of the latest news, rumours and updates from Old Trafford below…

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Soap star hits back as she’s mum-shamed for ‘making sure her kids are bullied’ over racy pics

SARAH Jayne Dunn has hit back after being mum-shamed for ‘making sure her kids are bullied’ over her racy pics.

The former soap star, who played Mandy Richardson on Hollyoaks from 1996 to 2021, famously left the show after being issued an ultimatum by furious bosses.

Woman holding a makeup brush and reading a comment.
Instagram
Sarah Jayne Dunn has hit back after being mum-shamed over her racy pics[/caption]
Woman applying makeup in front of a mirror.
Instagram
Sarah posted a a get-ready-with-me video[/caption]

They ordered her to quit adult subscription site OnlyFans, where she was flogging risque shots, or be axed.

While she’s been making big money on the platform, having claimed to have taken home £700,000 in 2022, Sarah has found herself the target of cruel trolling.

Taking to Instagram to confront her latest bully, she sarcastically responded to their nasty comment.

The follower had written: “Yeah why not just make sure your kids get bullied because of your content just so you can get a little validation from people you don’t know, good idea.”

But Sarah – who shares son Stanley, nine, with her husband Jonathan Smith – made sure to clap back with humour, pretending to read a positive one in a get-ready-with-me video.

With the aforementioned jibe shown on the screen, she instead read: “Thanks for your inspiring content. Your son is really lucky to have a mom like you that loves him so much. Please show us some more of your outfits.”

Sarah then enthused: “Of course I will! What a kind, kind comment. Thank you. I will happily show you another outfit,” before proceding to talk her fans through what she had been wearing.

At the end, she concluded: “Thanks again for that really, really lovely, positive comment.”

The actress quit the Channel 4 soap for a career on OnlyFans three years ago.

Hollyoaks said it doesn’t allow cast members to be active on certain 18+ websites because of the show’s responsibility to its young audience.

Speaking about posting on OnlyFans before, Sarah said it was “about taking back control, about empowerment and confidence and having full power over my choices”.

More recently, Sarah revealed her new job after quitting the soap, and will be teaching her first ever pole class.

Sharing images of herself pole dancing, the actress penned: “I’m excited and terrified in equal measure… because very soon, I’ll be stepping into a whole new challenge- teaching my first beginners’ pole class!

“Pole has been a huge part of my life for over two years now. I first found it just after lockdown, a little before turning 41, when I was looking for something fun, but challenging.

“From the very first spin, I was hooked. What started as a way to move and push myself has become so much more- strength, confidence, and a whole new community of incredible, supportive people who lift each other up (literally!).”

Family selfie with a building in the background.
Instagram
She shares son Stanley, nine, with her husband Jonathan Smith[/caption]
Woman in pink lingerie smiling in a bedroom.
Instagram
Sarah has been making six figures on OnlyFans[/caption]
Woman in red bikini performing pole dance.
instagram
She has been posting images of herself pole dancing recently[/caption]

Sarah continued: “I’ve recently started 1:1 training with a new pole coach, and I can already feel myself improving in ways I never expected.

“Pole is as tough as it is beautiful, what looks effortless takes an insane amount of strength, control, and resilience. But that’s what I love about it. Every move mastered feels like a little victory, and there’s always a new challenge to take on.

“Now, I’m about to take the next step, sharing everything I’ve learned with others. My beginner’s classes will be for absolute newbies or anyone wanting to go back to basics!

“I’ll be teaching at the same studio where my journey began too which is exciting @PoleGymholmeschapel, and I can’t wait to help others discover just how empowering pole can be.”

Sarah showed off her toned physique in the carousel of images, as she promoted her new pole class.

She worte a sparkly leotard and had her hair in a colourful plait as she revealed her pole skills for her fans.

One person commented: “These photos are mind boggling @sarahjaynedunn they’re full of warrior woman power and I love them! You’ll be amazing. You’ve excelled at this and been so determined. All the joys!”

Someone else penned: “Wow you look incredible Sarah, I remember when you first started, amazing how far you’ve come. So pleased for you, all the best for your next chapter.”

And another added: “You will be wonderful we just know it. Our gorgeous girl who can achieve anything she puts her mind to.”

It’s not the first time that Sarah has shown off her sensational figure in a skimpy pole dancing outfit.

The star has been praised for her toned body after completely transforming her physique.

She looked ageless as she shared a series of photographs after working out and doing some intense pole dancing.

“My knees have almost recovered,” Sarah penned in the caption of her sizzling set of snaps, revealing that she suffered some pain after her intense work out sessions.

She went on to add: “If you missed my stories last month, I had the BEST workshop with @dapnelux, is was a HUGE challenge- those moves were FAST, especially tying them all together to music!”

Sarah added: “I left feeling tired but inspired to sign up for more workshops this year with this wonderful community of supportive women.

“I’ve got much further to go before I’m anywhere near as slick as Daphne (although she has been at it much longer than me!) but what an inspiration!”

One fan remarked: “You look absolutely amazing. Your body shape has changed so much. Great job.”

A second said: “I can’t believe how much your physic has changed! Looking fab!”

Sarah Jayne Dunn in a beige dress.
Lime Pictures
The former soap star played the role of Mandy Richardson from 1996 to 2001[/caption]
Sarah Jayne Dunn at an Ann Summers International Women's Day event.
Getty
Sarah famously left Hollyoaks after she was issued an ultimatum by furious soap bosses[/caption]

Read More »

Galaxy S25 Edge Struggles: Samsung’s Risky Bet Backfires

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge Falters: A Bold Vision Meets Market Resistance When Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S25 Edge, it came with big promises and bold ambition. Marketed as a revolutionary flagship that would push the boundaries of smartphone design, it was meant to reinvigorate Samsung’s high-end lineup and usher in a new era of sleek, ... Read more

The post Galaxy S25 Edge Struggles: Samsung’s Risky Bet Backfires appeared first on AiTechtonic - Informative & Entertaining Text Media.

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MrBeast Says He’s Broke Before Wedding Despite Billions

MrBeast’s Billion-Dollar Paradox: The YouTube Mogul Who Claims He’s “Broke” Before His Wedding In the ever-evolving digital age, few content creators have achieved the global recognition and financial clout of Jimmy Donaldson, more famously known as MrBeast. From jaw-dropping giveaways and extravagant stunts to multi-million dollar business ventures, MrBeast is widely considered a trailblazer in ... Read more

The post MrBeast Says He’s Broke Before Wedding Despite Billions appeared first on AiTechtonic - Informative & Entertaining Text Media.

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Mike Tomlin suffers devastating news with Pittsburgh Steelers star to miss entire 2025 season following OTA injury

THE Pittsburgh Steelers suffered a massive injury blow which will affect their plans for the entire year.

Pittsburgh is going through OTAs ahead of mandatory mini camp in the early stages of their 2025 preparation.

Mike Tomlin, head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, wearing a headset.
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Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin is ruing a massive injury blow[/caption]
Donald Parham #89 of the Los Angeles Chargers.
Getty
Donald Parham Jr suffered a torn Achilles in OTAs[/caption]

And one of their newest arrivals this offseason has suffered a massive blow in a big setback for Mike Tomlin.

Tight end Donald Parham Jr only joined Pittsburgh in February.

But he tore his Achilles during OTAs on Tuesday.

And the injury will likely mean he can’t play during the 2025 season.

A usual rehab period for a torn Achilles is between nine and 12 months.

Parham Jr, 27, was playing for his fifth NFL team.

He went undrafted in 2019 and played for both the Detroit Lions and Washington Redskins on their practice squads.

After a spell in the XFL with the Arlington Renegades, he finally got his NFL break.

Parham signed with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2020 and was with the team until last summer.

He played 47 games over four seasons, scoring 11 touchdowns.

Los Angeles cut him before the 2024 season, which he spent on the Denver Broncos practice squad.

Parham was signed by the Steelers to a one-year deal in February.

He now faces an uphill battle to get his football career back after the injury blow.

Pittsburgh was in trade talks for Miami Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith.

They could be forced to pursue a deal now after the injury setback to Parham.

NFL WEEK 1 SCHEDULE

(All times ET)

Thur 4 Sept
8.20 pm – Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles

Fri 5 Sept
8pm – Kansas City Chiefs at Los Angeles Chargers

Sun 7 Sept
1pm – Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Atlanta Falcons
1pm – Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns
1pm – Miami Dolphins at Indianapolis Colts
1pm – Las Vegas Raiders at New England Patriots
1pm – Arizona Cardinals at New Orleans Saints
1pm – Pittsburgh Steelers at New York Jets
1pm – New York Giants at Washington Commanders
1pm – Carolina Panthers at Jacksonville Jaguars
4.05 pm – Tennessee Titans at Denver Broncos
4.05 pm – San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks
4.25 pm – Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers
4.25 pm – Houston Texans at Los Angeles Rams
8.20 pm – Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo Bills

Mon 8 Sept
8.15 pm – Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears

Pittsburgh is also hosting wide receiver Gabe Davis for workouts.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Davis was due to travel to the city on Wednesday.

And he’ll have a workout with the team Thursday having been made a free agent this year.

Davis previously played for the Buffalo Bills and Jacksonville Jaguars.

The Steelers are also still waiting on an answer from free agent quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

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Upway launches huge sale with up to 60% off e-bikes – but you’ll have to be quick

Black Rad Power Bikes RadRunner electric bicycle on a paved path near the beach.

LOOKING to cut the cost of your commute? The Upway e-bike sale makes it easier than ever to speed off with savings.

The online marketplace is offering up to 60% off major bike brands like Cannondale and Specialized – but you’ll have to be quick, as the sale doesn’t run for long.

Man riding an electric bike on a grassy area with palm trees in the background.
Upway
Upway offers the largest selection of e-bikes available online[/caption]

Save up to 60% on e-bikes with code UPWAYFAN

Founded in 2021, Upway offers a wide selection of high-quality e-bikes, including new and pre-owned options.

If you’re shopping for a refurbished ride, you’ll bag an e-bike that has been thoroughly inspected and repaired by professional in-house master mechanics.

Whether you’re searching for a folding model that minimizes space and emissions, or a mountain bike that won’t break the bank, it’s well worth looking at the cycling choices on offer from Upway.

Simply add your favorite e-bike to your basket and use the code UPWAYFAN to score impressive savings.

Customers who spend $1000 or more will get $100 off their first e-bike order when they use the exclusive code.

One of the brand’s best-value options is the certified pre-owned Cannondale Adventure Neo 2 EQ, which has been slashed by 59%.

Originally priced at $3,525, the electric bike now costs $1,449 – that means you’ll ride off with an extra $2,000 in your pocket.

The Cannondale Adventure Neo 2 EQ is a great choice for shoppers seeking a pre-owned hybrid e-bike that’s well-equipped for everyday adventures.

It’s suitable for individuals between 5ft 7in and 6ft 6in and has traveled 1,016 miles since 2022.

The e-bike also boasts a high-capacity battery for long range, and its step-through frame and upright riding position make it a comfortable option for riders of all levels.

If you’re searching for a more budget-friendly e-bike, the Momentum Lafree E+ is worth a closer look.

Now discounted to $1,099, the Momentum Lafree E+ was sold to Upway by a business and is a solid choice for beginners and seasoned riders facing a busy city commute.

It’s suitable for individuals between 5ft 7in and 5ft 11in, and features smooth assistance to help tackle small hills with ease.

Other standout savings include the Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 and the Aventon Sinch.2.

The Specialized Turbo Tero X 5.0 is a certified pre-owned, full-suspension electric mountain bike that has been slashed by 34%, and the Aventon Sinch.2 is a certified pre-owned, portable option that is easy to carry and store.

While browsing the sale, customers can find savings on a wide selection of e-bikes, including city/hybrid, road, cargo, folding, and mountain bike models.

Free delivery is also available throughout California, and all e-bikes come with a one-year warranty.

Upway’s latest sale is set to end on June 30, 2025 – if you’re interested, you’d better shift gear.

Save up to 60% on e-bikes with code UPWAYFAN

Head to The Sun’s shopping hub for more of the latest deals and sales.

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Putin’s chilling plot to march 10,000 troops into ANOTHER European nation revealed by its PM… & it could spiral into WW3

RUSSIA reportedly plans to deploy 10,000 troops into a breakaway region of another Eastern European nation – igniting fears of Putin’s war spilling further across the continent.

Moldova’s Prime Minister has warned the Kremlin wants to march troops into Transnistria – a Moscow-friendly enclave that’s internationally recognised as part of Moldova.

Cars waiting in line at a Transnistria-Moldova border crossing.
AFP
Cars wait in line at the crossing point between the self-proclaimed republic of Transnistria and Moldova[/caption]
Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean speaking at a press conference.
EPA
Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean speaks during a press conference[/caption]
Vladimir Putin at a meeting.
Reuters
Russian troops have been based in Transnistria since 1992[/caption]
Russian servicemen walking in the Kursk region.
EPA
Russian servicemen walking along at an area in the Kursk region, Russia[/caption] Illustration of a map showing a potential Russian annexation of Transnistria in Moldova, with inset photos of troops and Vladimir Putin.

The small landlocked region, sandwiched between Ukraine and the rest of Moldova, has been controlled by separatists for 33 years.

Transnistria receives significant economic and military support from Moscow, and the region’s politicians have voiced their intent for it to become part of Russia.

The region’s location between the pro-Europe governments in Moldova and Ukraine make it impossible for Putin to get soldiers in at present.

While Moldova currently has an EU-friendly government, its PM has said Russia is meddling in its upcoming election this September.

Prime Minister Dorin Recean told the FT this is likely in the hope that a more pro-Kremlin government might allow for Russian troops to be sent to Transnistria.

“This is a huge effort to undermine Moldovan democracy,” he told the paper.

“They want to consolidate their military presence in the Transnistrian region.”

Russian troops have been based in Transnistria since 1992, when the Kremlin supported the region in its war of independence from Moldova.

However, the numbers have substantially wound down over the years, with there currently only being about 1,500 soldiers fighting under the Russian banner.

But only a few of these will have actually been sent by Moscow, with most being locals who signed up.

Transnistria isn’t internationally recognised as an independent state, and is not a member of the UN.

Think tank The Institute for the Study of War forecast last October that Russia might use its ties to Transnistria “to establish long-term influence over Moldovan domestic and foreign policies”.

Recean further highlighted the ominous military threats to Ukraine and NATO that could arise from extra Russian troops in the region.

Its location to Ukraine’s southwest could raise fresh headaches for Kyiv if Russia used Transnistria to open up a new front in the war.

“You can imagine with 10,000 troops, what the leverage and pressure would be on the southwestern part of Ukraine,” he said.

But Recean also noted the area’s proximity to Romania, which is a NATO country.

If Russian forces threatened or attacked Romania – or any other NATO member – then the entire alliance would be obliged to come to its aid.

NATO Article 5 sets out that an attack on one member state is an attack on all, meaning Russian attacks against a NATO country could quickly spiral into all-out war.

Transnistria's history

Transnistria is a tiny slither of land along Moldova's border with Ukraine.

The region has been controlled by Russian backed separatists for decades following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

It declared independence in 1990, which was followed by a war that saw Russia support Transnistria’s independence.

Moscow has maintained a strong military presence in the territory since 1992.

Many of Transnistria’s political leaders have long voiced their intent for the region to become a part of Russia.

But it still remains internationally recognised as part of Moldova – a country that seeks closer co-operation with the EU.

Transnistria has a population of around 465,000.

Fears of a war between the West and Russia over Transnistria have been amplified by the separatist region’s leader Vadim Krasnoselsky.

He told the Russian TASS news agency: “A war in Transnistria would mean a direct conflict between Russia and NATO.

“I don’t have the slightest doubt about it. Everything is closely intertwined here.

“Both Romania, a NATO member, and the Russian Federation have interests here.”

Recean added that the 10,000-troop figure was based on intelligence assessments.

“Currently, their forces there are almost meaningless,” he said.

“But with a higher military presence in Transnistria that a Russia-leaning government can allow for, they can consolidate.”

Moldova was part of the Soviet Union before its collapse in 1991.

In recent years, it has sought to pursue closer ties with the European Union, and became an official candidate to join the EU in 2022.

A referendum held last year committing Moldova on its path to EU membership passed by just 0.7% of the vote amid what was widely believed to be a Russian interference campaign.

Recean told the FT that Russia spent the equivalent of 1% of Moldova’s GDP on influence campaigns in 2024.

Billboard in Tiraspol, Transnistria reading "Russia in our hearts" in Russian.
AFP
A billboard reading “Russia in our hearts” sits on the side of a road in the town of Tiraspol, the capital of Transnistria[/caption]
Photo of Russian servicemen on a self-propelled gun in the Kursk region.
EPA
Russian servicemen riding atop a self-propelled gun at an area in the Kursk region, Russia[/caption]

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