The leader of the breakaway region of Transdniestria in Moldova has traveled to Moscow for talks aimed at resolving an energy crisis sparked by the suspension of Russian gas deliveries, as reported by Transdniestria's news agency. Since January 1, Transdniestria has faced severe power shortages due to Gazprom's halt of gas exports, attributable to an alleged Moldovan debt of $709 million not recognized by Chisinau.
Moscow attributes the gas supply suspension to Moldova and Ukraine's refusal to extend a gas transit deal that expired on December 31, alleging that the proceeds supported Russia's military activities. Moldova suggests that Moscow could find alternative routes to supply Transdniestria, which previously received gas through Ukraine.
Vadim Krasnoselsky, Transdniestria's separatist leader, engaged in discussions to address the energy crisis, although no specifics were disclosed. Moldova's President Maia Sandu acknowledged the visit, expressing a desire for swift access to electricity, heating, and water for the people of Transdniestria.
Moldova's political analyst Vitalie Andrievschi speculated that discussions in Moscow might reaffirm the stance that gas supplies depended on Moldova settling its debts, or Russia could explore alternative routes without requiring immediate payment. While Moldovan officials offered assistance in procuring gas from external markets via Ukraine, Transdniestria's authorities claimed no concrete proposals had been made by Chisinau.
President Sandu condemned what she considered an artificially induced energy crisis, arguing that Russia had other options to uphold gas deliveries. She perceived Russia's actions as an attempt to destabilize Moldova, aligning with her goal of EU integration for the country.
Following a close reelection last year, President Sandu aims to steer Moldova towards the European Union. Moldova's foreign ministry denounced Kremlin aide Nikolai Patrushev's remarks as unwelcome interference, where he blamed Chisinau for the energy crisis, warning of potential consequences for Moldova and Ukraine due to what he referred to as "neo-Nazi" policies in Kyiv.