According to a public opinion poll published on 13 March in Tiraspol, the overwhelming majority -- or 67.8 percent -- of residents in Transdniestria are disappointed in Ukraine’s observance of new customs regulations on the border with the self-proclaimed republic, itar-tass.com reported the same day. Conducted by the New Century Independent Center for Analytical Studies, the poll found that 80 percent of respondents place responsibility for the “economic blockade” on the presidents of Moldova and Ukraine. Only 1.2 percent support Ukraine’s actions. More than 74 percent of those polled believe that the conflict may lead to a humanitarian catastrophe, while about half fear a new armed conflict. Meanwhile, more than three out of four respondents pin their hopes on Russia to find a resolution to the crisis. Over seven percent count on support from international agencies, while just 2.4 percent expect help from Ukraine. A year ago, 20 percent of Transdniestrian residents opined that they could rely on Ukraine for support in times of trouble. Results of the poll were based on interviews with 520 people from across Transdniestria’s six districts. (www.itar-tass.com, March 13)