In Chisinau on January 25th, the leader of Moldova's Transdniestria region, facing power and heating cuts, warned that gas reserves would run out soon. He urged the central government to stop delays and provide new supplies. Moldova's Prime Minister mentioned that the issue could be resolved if Gazprom resumed shipments or if Transdniestria agreed to pay for gas from European markets. The region, which split from Moldova during the Soviet Union's collapse, historically received Russian gas. However, due to the conflict between Kyiv and Moscow, Ukraine no longer allows gas to pass through its territory. The gas was crucial for providing power in Moldova's government-controlled areas.
President Vadim Krasnoselsky of Transdniestria expressed concern for residents' well-being due to gas shortages causing fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. He highlighted the urgency, stating that it would take months to restore heating in residential buildings if gas ran out. Krasnoselsky criticized Moldova for delays and accused them of exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
The president had sought help from U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and global leaders to address the energy crisis. Residents, impacted by daily power cuts, demanded authorities allow gas into the region. Moldova's Prime Minister, Dorin Recean, emphasized that only resuming Russian gas shipments or payment for European gas could resolve the situation. He blamed the Kremlin for obstructing gas supplies and sowing conflict in the region.
Government sources reported no payment from Transdniestria for gas purchases. Moldova's strained relationship with Russia, stemming from Ukraine's invasion and alleged interference in its government, further complicates the gas supply issue. Gazprom insisted on settling $709 million in outstanding dues from Moldova before resuming gas deliveries, a claim disputed by the Moldovan government.