Title: Moldova‘s Interim Gas Boss Responds to Gazprom‘s Supply halt; PM Condemns Russia’s ‘Political Weapon’ Use
The interim chairman of Moldovagaz, Vadim Cheban, has acknowledged Gazprom’s decision to halt gas supplies to Moldova starting January 1, 2025. In a statement, Cheban revealed that since December 2022, all Russian gas had been rerouted to the Pridnestrovian region. Meanwhile, gas for consumers on the right bank of the Dniester River has been sourced from regional and European markets.
Notably, Cheban confirmed that Moldovagaz has secured sufficient gas volumes to fully meet the right bank’s demand until March 2025.
Gazprom’s Justification and Moldova’s PM Response
Gazprom cited unfulfilled payment obligations as the reason for its decision. However, Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Reчан dismissed this as yet another move by Russia to leave the residents of the Pridnestrovian region without heating and electricity this winter. He accused Russia of using energy as a political tool and hostage-taking, as it controls the region through its illegal military presence.
Rechán firmly condemned Russia’s coercive tactics and stated that Moldova does not recognize the debt declared invalid by international audit. He emphasized that Moldova has diversified its gas sources to reduce dependence on a single supplier. In response to Gazprom’s move, he reassured citizens that the government will ensure gas supplies from alternative sources and protect vulnerable consumers.
Furthermore, Rechán hinted at exploring legal avenues, including international arbitration, to safeguard Moldova’s national interests and seek compensation for economic damages and threats to citizens’ security caused by Russia’s decisions.
Keep reading