Romania and Russia are known for their tense relations, which stem from Romania's membership in NATO and NATO's negative assessment by Russia. The status of Transnistria, a regional conflict, is an additional source of tension. Tensions in detail: NATO membership: Romania is a member of NATO, a military alliance that Russia sees as a direct threat. Transnistria: Transnistria is an unrecognized state within Moldova whose status as Transnistria is a source of conflict and tension between Romania and Russia. Historical background: Romania's history with the Soviet Union, including Romania's occupation and later independence, also plays a role in current tensions. Ukrainian issue: The war in Ukraine has further increased tensions between Romania and Russia, as Romania supports the NATO alliance in the war.