The United States is condemning last week's seizure of a Moldovan-controlled port by separatists in the breakaway Trans-Dniester republic.
The U.S. Embassy in Chisinau Tuesday called the port takeover an unjustified and aggressive act that could have had extremely dangerous consequences.
It also says it appreciates what it calls the calm and responsible reaction by Moldovan authorities.
Moldovan officials say about 80 separatist fighters seized the Dniester River port of Varnita Friday, taking over buildings, barges, and detaining port managers.
It is unclear if the separatists still control the port or if they are holding any hostages.
The port is in the Trans-Dniester region but under Moldovan jurisdiction.
Trans-Dniester broke away from Moldova in 1992, but is not internationally recognized. Talks on a final settlement have so far been unsuccessful.
Some information for this report was provided by AP.