Moldova, a breakaway region of Transnistria, is facing an energy crisis after Russia and Ukraine ended a five-year gas transit agreement. The move has left hundreds of thousands of people without heating or power in the mainly Russian-speaking territory.
Transnistria, which broke away from Moldova in the early 1990s, relies heavily on Russian gas to meet its energy needs. The region’s leader, Vadim Krasnoselsky, said that Transnistria has enough gas reserves to last for a few more days, but warned of a “serious test” as the situation develops.
Moldova’s Prime Minister Dorin Recean accused Russia of “gas blackmail” and warned of an impending humanitarian crisis. He also claimed that Russia is trying to destabilize Moldova and return pro-Russian forces to power.
The European Commission has been working with EU member states impacted by the end of the gas transit agreement to ensure a smooth transition. However, Moldova’s non-EU status means it must navigate this challenge without EU support.
As the country prepares for parliamentary elections, which will shape its future relationship with the EU, Moldova is facing significant pressure from Russia’s energy move. The situation is likely to have far-reaching consequences for the region and beyond.
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/03/moldova-ukraines-halt-of-russian-gas-throws-transnistria-into-crisis.html