Moldova will enter a state of emergency starting Monday due to the potential gas shortages as Russian gas supplies may cease in January. The Moldovan parliament approved this measure since gas transit through Ukraine, which has terminated its contract with Russia’s Gazprom, will end this month.
The gas from Russia enters Moldova via the separatist region of Transnistria, which is heavily influenced by Moscow. Approximately 80% of Moldova’s gas needs are met through an energy plant in Transnistria, with the region benefiting financially from the sales.
Last month, Moldova’s Energy Minister Viktor Parlikov traveled to St. Petersburg to negotiate with Gazprom for continued gas delivery through Turkstream via Turkey, Bulgaria, and Romania. Gazprom has demanded repayment of “historic gas debts,” which it claims amount to €750 million, while Moldovan authorities assert it is only €8.5 million.
Parlikov was dismissed by Prime Minister Dorin Recean after returning to Moldova. Recean accused President Putin of attempting to destabilize Moldova and urged parliament to approve the emergency state to avoid another winter of “energy extortion.” The state of emergency allows Moldova to control gas distribution and limit exports.
Moldova, one of Europe’s poorest countries, recently held elections won by pro-European President Maia Sandu, amid claims of interference and bribery. A concurrent referendum showed a narrow majority in favor of enshrining a pro-European course in the constitution.
Source: NOS