In 2005, The Wall Street Journal called Transnistria "a major haven for smuggling weapons and women". However, in more recent statements, OSCE and European Union diplomats cited by Radio Free Europe called the smuggling claims "likely exaggerated".
The initial assertion made by The Wall Street Journal in 2005 regarding Transnistria's role in smuggling weapons and women was contradicted by subsequent statements from OSCE and European Union diplomats, who argued that the allegations were probably inaccurate.