Moldova

The flow of Russian gas through Ukraine ceased on January 1st following Kyiv's decision not to extend its transit agreement with Gazprom. This development has created significant challenges for Moldova, particularly in its eastern region of Transnistria. Transnistria, a separatist region that separated from Moldova during the Soviet Union's collapse, has historically relied on Russian gas without payment. The region now faces immediate energy concerns, with heating limited to hospitals and essential infrastructure. Local authorities have established heating points and emergency hotlines for firewood assistance. The situation affects Moldova's broader energy security. The Kurchugan power plant in Transnistria, which provides 80% of Moldova's electricity, has switched to coal operations with only 50 days of supplies remaining. While the Moldovan government claims it has secured gas reserves until spring and plans to purchase electricity from Europe, these alternatives come with substantially […]