Energy Crisis Escalates in Transdniestria Amid Gas Cutoff

The breakaway region of Transdniestria is facing a severe energy crisis after Russia halted gas supplies, impacting heating and hot water services. The cessation stems from a lapsed transit deal between Russia and Ukraine amid their ongoing war. Moldova is supporting Transdniestria in its energy transition.

The breakaway Moldovan region of Transdniestria found itself in an energy crisis on Wednesday, following the cessation of gas supplies from Russia due to a halted transit agreement with Ukraine. This sudden cutoff left around 450,000 residents without heating and hot water amid plunging temperatures.

Local energy company Tirasteploenergo confirmed the stop in supply, stating that the situation arose after the expiry of a gas transit deal. Transdniestria's leader, Vadim Krasnoselsky, acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in the region's preparedness, attributing the crisis to payment arrears disputes between Moldova and Gazprom.

While Moldovan officials, including government spokesman Daniel Voda, assure that energy reserves suffice for now, efforts are underway to address the region's immediate needs. Moldova plans to decrease energy consumption and increase imports from Romania. Meanwhile, Transdniestria's parliament has urged Moscow to renegotiate with Ukraine to restore gas flow.

(With inputs from agencies.)