Transnistria's energy crisis deepens amid gas halt from Russia
Russia's cessation of gas supplies to Europe via Ukraine has sparked a significant energy crisis in the separatist region of Transnistria. The region has cut off heating and hot water supplies for residents, appealing for patience. This situation heightens tensions between Moldova and Russia, reports Reuters.
The separatist region of Moldova, Transnistria, suspended heating and hot water in households on Wednesday, affecting approximately 450,000 residents. This decision stems from Russia halting gas transit through Ukraine.
“There is no heating or hot water,” stated a representative of the local energy company Tirasteploenergo. This situation is due to the expiration of the transit agreement between Russia and Ukraine, further complicated by the ongoing conflict, reports Reuters.
Things will get better. Think about yourself, your family, your loved ones – urged Krasnoselsky, pointing to the payment dispute between Moldova and Gazprom.
Reactions from Ukraine and Europe
Ukraine refused to extend the gas transit, which President Volodymyr Zelensky described as "one of Moscow's biggest defeats." He emphasised that supporting Moldova in this energy transition is now a collective responsibility for Europe.
Moldova is undertaking measures to reduce energy consumption by a third, using domestic production and imports from Romania. Government spokesperson Daniel Voda assured that gas reserves are adequate for the winter, and power plants are functioning normally. He also mentioned seeking alternatives to support residents of Transnistria.
According to Reuters, the local energy company in Transnistria advised residents to adopt preventative measures, such as minimising heat loss and using electric heaters. "It is forbidden to use gas or electric stoves to heat the apartment - this can lead to tragedy," warned the company.
The Transnistrian parliament requested the Kremlin to negotiate a new gas agreement with Ukraine. Russia has promised to protect its citizens and soldiers in the region; however, resolving the crisis remains uncertain.
In Tiraspol, where the temperature was around 4°C, residents are striving to cope with the challenging situation. Olga, a mother of two children, said they are prepared. “We prepared two rooms for this emergency and installed electric fireplaces there for heating, since they promised not to disconnect us from the electricity. So we will hold on like this, hoping that this whole situation with gas is temporary,” she emphasised.
