Moldova challenges Russian gas deliveries to Transnistria
Moldova's president, Maia Sandu, has declared gas supplies from Russia to Transnistria illegal, asserting that they contravene international sanctions. Sandu stresses that deliveries through intermediaries violate Moldovan law.
President Maia Sandu opposes Russia's delivery of gas to the separatist region of Transnistria. According to Kommersant, she noted that such actions breach international sanctions and Moldovan legislation.
She underscored that "Gazprom", the primary shareholder of "Moldovagaz", could facilitate legal gas deliveries through this company. However, as she pointed out, Russia opts for opaque schemes that involve intermediaries, which casts doubt on its intentions and Moscow's accountability.
As of 1st January, "Gazprom" ceased gas supplies to Europe, including Moldova, due to the absence of a contract extension with Ukraine. Authorities in Transnistria have warned that gas reserves in the region could be depleted within a month, leading to several casualties. In response, the leader of Transnistria, Vadim Krasnoselsky, on 15th January, announced the possible resumption of Russian gas supplies as a form of "humanitarian aid".
Purchase on the European market
According to Kommersant, Moscow and Tiraspol are contemplating procuring gas on the European spot market through an intermediary company rather than utilising the "Turkish Stream." Approximately 3 million cubic metres of gas will be delivered daily from January to April, which may cost 164 million dollars.
Without central heating and hot water, residents of Transnistria were advised to use electric heaters sparingly to prevent overloading the electrical network.
Russian Gazprom is exploring new routes through Turkey and the Balkans despite supply challenges. However, Ukraine and Russia remain divided by a tense relationship, where gas has become a negotiating tool in broader discussions concerning the region's future and the ceasefire, writes "Kommersant".
