Explosions in separatist region
The week's news at a glance.
Tiraspol, Moldova
Unknown attackers blew up a tram this week in the capital of Moldova’s breakaway Transnistria region, killing two people, including a 6-year-old Russian girl. Authorities suspect that a grenade was used. A similar attack last month on a bus killed seven and wounded 23. Nobody has claimed responsibility, but Transnistria Security Minister Vladimir Antyufeyev called the acts “terrorist attacks.” They may be linked to next month’s scheduled referendum on independence. Moldova has been split since it emerged as an independent state from the 1991 breakup of the Soviet Union. Russian troops never left the Transnistria region, which is populated mostly by Russians and Ukrainians. Next month, Transnistria residents will vote on whether to ally themselves with Russia or remain as the autonomous region of Moldova.
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
Selfies ban in art galleries: a sign of the times?
Talking Point Priceless art has been damaged by visitors desperate to take a snap with star attractions, leading some galleries and museums to start fighting back
-
Quiz of The Week: 21 – 27 June
Have you been paying attention to The Week's news?
-
The Week Unwrapped: How do you turn plastics into paracetamol?
Podcast Plus, what is the Wagner Group doing now? And why is it so hard to find a job after university?