EU Urges Transnistria to Accept Energy Aid from Moldova Following Russian Gas Cut

The European Commission has urged Transnistria  to accept humanitarian and energy assistance offered by the Moldovan government following the suspension of gas supplies from Russia.

According to Politico, the European Commission emphasized that Transnistrian authorities should no longer obstruct access to alternative energy sources, after Russia halted its gas supply. European Commission spokesperson for foreign affairs, Anita Hipper, urged Tiraspol to cooperate with Chisinau to address the energy crisis, benefiting the local population.

Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean accused Russia of exacerbating the crisis by cutting gas supplies to the regions under its control, including Transnistria. He noted that Russia’s actions, including the illegal deployment of military units, have hindered the delivery of any assistance to the region.

The Moldovan government believes that Russia has blocked alternative gas routes to Transnistria to increase tensions ahead of Moldova’s parliamentary elections. Prime Minister Recean warned that the energy crisis could undermine the self-declared independence of Transnistria.

The European Commission reiterated its call for Transnistrian authorities to engage with Moldova in accepting the assistance. Hipper stressed the importance of cooperation in resolving the issue to meet the needs of the population.

Anita Hipper further emphasized that the European Union is in regular contact with Moldovan authorities to help manage the current challenges. “We are aware of the very serious situation in the breakaway region of Transnistria. We continue regular exchanges with Moldovan authorities to mitigate the impact of the cessation of Russian gas supplies. A working group with Moldova has been created to address these challenges. The group last met on December 18, and another meeting is scheduled for this week,” she said.

The European Commission also highlighted the support provided to Moldova in recent years. In 2022, Moldova synchronized its electricity grid with the European Union’s network, which enhanced its capacity for electricity supply starting in December. Additionally, the agreement ensured Moldova could receive electricity from Ukraine.

The European Commission has facilitated cooperation between European network operators and the Energy Community Secretariat to ensure Moldova’s access to additional electricity if needed. EU officials have urged all member states to demonstrate solidarity with Moldova during this period.

Earlier, the Moldovan government described the energy crisis in Transnistria, triggered by Russia’s suspension of gas supplies, as part of a broader strategy of manipulation and propaganda. According to government spokesperson Daniel Vodă, the crisis is not only an economic issue but a deliberate attempt to spread disinformation and instill fear and dissatisfaction.