The cutoff of one of Russia's last gas export routes to Europe is being felt most acutely in a small, predominantly Russian-speaking breakaway region of Moldova that has relied on Moscow for protection for decades.
Russian-backed separatists declared independence from Moldova during the Soviet Union's collapse in the early 1990s, creating Transdniestria, a region with about 450,000 residents.
Russia has stationed around 1,500 troops there and previously supplied free gas. This support ended on New Year’s Day when Ukraine refused to extend a gas transit deal, impacting Transdniestria immediately.
Households lost central heating and hot water, and by Thursday, all industrial enterprises except food producers had to halt production. In Tiraspol, residents acknowledged that weeks of speculation about a gas cut had become reality, with many resigned to the difficult times ahead.
Read next
17:22
The European Union and the Republic of Moldova today agreed on a two-year comprehensive strategy enhancing energy independence of the country and supporting it to overcome the energy crisis caused after Russia cut off supplies early of January.
21:44
Ukraine is ready to assist in transporting Azerbaijani gas to Europe, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Saturday, offering to utilize the country's infrastructure to help European nations reduce their reliance on Russian energy.
15:19
The European Union has pledged 148 million euros in new humanitarian aid for Ukraine and Moldova to address urgent needs like food, shelter, and heating. The announcement came as Commissioner Hadja Lahbib visited Ukraine to assess the ongoing crisis.
18:15
Moldova’s separatist region of Transdniestria has extended its state of emergency for another month as it struggles with an energy crisis following Russia’s suspension of gas supplies. The region faces power cuts and shortages amid rising tensions before Moldova's elections.
16:59
Moldova
Maia Sandu takes office for her second term as Moldova's president, following a decisive election victory and a ceremony attended by key officials and diplomats.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment