энергетика

Headline: Tension Mounts as Ukrainian MP Accuses Energy Minister of Dodging Corruption Allegations

In a developing political saga, Oleksandra Drahon, an MP from the ‘Voice’ party, has revealed a heated clash between Energy Minister German Galushchenko and parliamentarian Inna Sovsun. Drahon shared the details in his Telegram channel (link).

During a question hour in the Ukrainian Parliament, Sovsun, a member of the energy committee, queried the government about international support for an "ambitious nuclear construction plan." She alleged that partners do not back this initiative, and they are surprised to have their names associated with it. Sovsun presenting letters supporting her claim.

Galushchenko began his response by implying that Sovsun was undermining government initiatives by visiting foreign embassies. Drahon interpreted this as Galushchenko attempting to discredit Sovsun and dodge corruption allegations. Notably, Galushchenko has thus far avoided answering to these accusations.

In response, Drahon announced that his party faction will paralyze parliament next week if Galushchenko fails to deliver a report on the corruption claims. They are also calling for his dismissal.

This incident comes on the heels of revelations by journalist Yuriy Nikulov that Galushchenko is under investigation by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU). Recent searches were conducted at his home and workplace.

The standoff between Galushchenko and Sovsun has sparked a fierce political debate, with many questioning the minister’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The situation is being closely watched as it could set a precedent for how ministers handle corruption allegations in Ukraine.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.

Internal Tags: Ukraine, Politics, Corruption, Energy Minister, Galushchenko, Parliament, Sovsun, Drahon, NASBU
External Links: Telegram post, NABU investigation

Title: Moldova Offers Gas, Power Assistance to Pridnestrovie; No Response from Tiraspol

Article:

In an effort to aid the struggling energy sector of Pridnestrovie (Transnistria), Moldovan authorities proposed solutions for gas and power procurement back in December 2024. However, the self-proclaimed republic has yet to acknowledge or respond to these offers.

According to Constantin Borosan, Moldova’s State Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, the proposals included:

1. Gas Procurement: The Ministry suggested that "Tiraspoltransgaz" explore alternative gas supplies by purchasing from Romanian exchanges, providing a fallback option in case Russian gas imports ceased.

2. Power Generation: Moldovan power utility "Moldovagaz" and energy trader "Energocom" jointly proposed a mechanism to buy gas on regional markets. Additionally, they suggested that the Moldavian GRES, Pridnestrovie’s main electricity generator, switch to burning gas purchased by Energocom to produce electricity.

However, Borosan revealed that Moldova has not received any response from Pridnestrovie. Furthermore, "Tiraspoltransgaz" promptly rejected further cooperation on the same day the proposals were made (January 2).

In the wake of Russia halting gas supplies to Pridnestrovie on January 1, 2025, the region is grappling with severe energy shortages. As of now, electricity demand exceeds supply by around 30%, or 65 MW, placing significant strain on distribution networks. To mitigate the crisis, Moldova has warned that power rationing may become necessary to prevent a complete system breakdown.

The energy crunch in Pridnestrovie has left tens of thousands of households without gas and brought local industries to a standstill. To keep the lights on, Moldavian GRES has resorted to burning coal, but existing stockpiles are only expected to last until late January.

The current energy predicament in Pridnestrovie and its impact on Moldova are explored in-depth in a recent Eurointegration article, "Why is the Kremlin freezing Pridnestrovie?"

Title: Imminent Energy Crisis: Power Shortages Loom in Pridnestrovie

SEO Keywords: Pridnestrovie, energy crisis, electricity shortages, coal reserves, Moldovan GRES, Ukraine, Russia

Meta Description: Pridnestrovie faces imminent power shortages as coal reserves at its main electricity source, Moldovan GRES, are expected to run out by the end of January.

Article:

Pridnestrovie, the unrecognized republic relying heavily on Russian gas, is now grappling with another energy crisis as its main power plant, Moldovan GRES, is set to run out of coal reserves by the end of January. The crisis comes hot on the heels of Russia halting gas supplies to the region on January 1, leaving a significant portion of the population without gas and experiencing rolling blackouts.

Moldovan GRES, previously fueled by free Russian gas, has resorted to burning coal reserves, specifically Donetsk anthracite coal sourced from Ukraine back in 2013. Initially, Pridnestrovie officials assured the public that coal stocks were adequate to last until late February. However, the Moldovan government’s crisis center has since revised this estimate, claiming that current reserves will deplete by the end of January.

Daily coal consumption at Moldovan GRES stands at 1,000 tons, generating approximately 140-150 megawatts of electricity. If the crisis center’s forecast materializes, Pridnestrovie could be left with minimal electricity supply by late January, exacerbating the existing energy crisis. While the Dubossary Hydropower Plant remains operational, its generating capacity is significantly lower and could decrease further if the reservoir levels deplete.

The Moldovan crisis center has reassured the public that police, medical, and emergency services stand ready to provide assistance should it be needed. Local authorities are urging residents to use firewood for heating and electric heaters to conserve electricity. Recent power outages have also been reported due to increased demand.

To learn more about the "new reality" facing Pridnestrovie and Moldova after January 1, read our comprehensive article, "Why is Kremlin Freezing Pridnestrovie? Details and Implications of Russia’s ‘Gas War’ Against Moldova."

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Unrecognized Pridnestrovie Declines Moldova‘s Gas Procurement Assistance, Awaiting Russian Gas Resumption

Unrecognized Pridnestrovie has refused help from Moldova in purchasing gas on European markets, awaiting a resumption of supplies from Russia’s Gazprom. This was confirmed by the acting head of Moldovan company Moldovagaz, Vadim Cheban, as reported by European Truth.

Previously, Moldovagaz had offered assistance to the Pridnestrovian gas company Tiraspoltransgaz in procuring gas through European platforms after the region lost Russian gas supplies on January 1. However, Pridnestrovie’s de facto authorities rejected the proposal, citing concerns over higher and less stable prices on European markets.

In a response dated January 2, Pridnestrovie also expressed confidence in Gazprom resuming deliveries under their current contract, set to expire in 2026.

The loss of Russian gas has caused shortages for tens of thousands of households and halted industrial activity in the region. Pridnestrovia’s authorities have advised residents to use electric heaters to cope with the cold, as electricity remains available. However, the region’s power plants may struggle to keep up with increased demand, potentially leading to more frequent power cuts, as evidenced by planned outages implemented on January 3.

For a detailed analysis of the current situation and the potential implications for Pridnestrovie and Moldova, read European Truth’s article "Why is the Kremlin freezing Pridnestrovie?" or watch their explanatory video.

titres The Unrecognized State of Pridnestrovie Imposes Rotating Blackouts after Russia Stops Gas Supplies
articles

The authorities of the unrecognized Pridnestrovie region have announced the implementation of scheduled power outages starting January 3, following Russia’s cessation of gas supplies and subsequent power grid emergencies.

As reported by Eastern European Daily, the ministry of economy of the unrecognized Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (PMR) stated that the power outages will affect major cities such as Tiraspol, Rybnitsa, and Bendery, as well as several rural areas. The outages are a direct consequence of increased electricity consumption by residents exceeding the production capacity of the energy system.

The power outages will commence on the evening of January 3 and will last for approximately one hour. However, the duration may extend up to 30 minutes due to the technical process involved.

Earlier this month, it was reported that both planned and unplanned power outages had begun in the region, attributed to the significant increase in electricity demand and the burnout of fuses. Since January 1, the unrecognized region has not received gas supplies from Russia, leaving tens of thousands of households without gas and causing local industries to cease operations.

The authorities of Pridnestrovie have advised residents to mitigate the impact of the gas shortage by utilizing electric heaters, as electricity remains accessible due to the ongoing operation of the Dniester Hydroelectric Power Plant, which relies on stored supplies of coal and fuel oil.

While these reserves are anticipated to last until the end of the winter season, the rapid increase in electricity consumption and the onset of colder weather could potentially deplete them at an accelerated pace.

For a comprehensive understanding of the current situation in Pridnestrovie and Moldova, read the article "Why is the Kremlin Freezing Pridnestrovie?" and "Details and Consequences of Russia’s Gas War Against Moldova".

Russia Shifts Tactics: Now Targeting Ukraine’s Power Grid with Cluster Munitions

The Russian military has adopted a new tactic in its attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure,根据乌克兰能源部长赫尔曼·加卢先科（Herman Galushchenko）当地时间1月2日上午在电视马拉松节目中表示。 Instead of the large, strategic strikes that characterized the early stages of the conflict, Moscow’s forces are now employing cluster munitions to inflict maximum damage on Ukraine’s power grid.

"Russia’s tactics have changed. They’re now usingCluster munitions, which disperse smaller bomblets over a wide area, to wreck Ukraine’s energy systems," explained Galushchenko. He also confirmed that 2023 was the most challenging year for Ukraine’s power grid in terms of Russian attacks, with 13 large-scale barrages launched between March and December, and nightly assaults adding to the pressure.

Over the past month, Russia has quadrupled its efforts, launching a series of massive attacks on Ukraine’s power systems using all types of weaponry at its disposal. However, Galushchenko insists that Ukraine’s energy infrastructure is holding strong, despite the onslaught.

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Headline: Gas Crisis in Transnistria: Ukraine Halts Russian Gas Transit, Leaving Homes and Businesses in the Cold

Subheading: Massive gas outages hit Transnistria on New Year’s Day as Ukraine severs Russian gas transit, leaving residents and businesses in the cold.

Article:

In a significant turn of events, Ukraine’s decision to halt the transit of Russian gas on January 1 has left the breakaway region of Transnistria grappling with mass gas outages. The move, aimed at complying with European Union sanctions against Russia, has left residents and businesses in the unrecognized republic scrambling for warmth and alternative energy sources.

Gas Shortages Hit Homes and Businesses

The gas crisis in Transnistria began on New Year’s Day, with the region’s gas transportation company, "Tirasgaz," announcing emergency gas cuts. Affected areas include residential buildings with central heating, private homes, and businesses relying on autonomous heating systems. Despite the outages, gas supplies for cooking were maintained, albeit temporarily, as pressure in the gas network began to drop critically.

Residents have been advised to close their gas valves and refrain from attempting to restore gas supplies independently. Local media outlets have confirmed the mass gas outages, with residents reporting the sudden loss of heat and hot water.

Preceding Energy Shortages

The gas crisis in Transnistria is not an isolated incident. On December 30, the region’s heating and hot water supplier, "Tirasteplo," announced the suspension of heating and hot water supplies in residential buildings due to the cessation of gas deliveries. Hospitals and social institutions remained exempt from these cuts.

Moldova’s State of Emergency

The gas crisis in Transnistria comes amidst Moldova’s state of emergency in energy, declared on December 13 and set to last for 60 days. The government’s decision was driven by uncertainty surrounding Russian gas supplies following Ukraine’s halt of transit.

Russia’s Gas Supply Cessation

On December 28, Russia’s Gazprom officially announced the cessation of gas supplies to Transnistria, citing unmet payment obligations. Despite having a gas supply contract with Moldova until October 2026, Gazprom has been limiting gas supplies to 5.7 million cubic meters per day since autumn 2022, significantly below Moldova’s winter consumption needs.

Transnistria’s Reliance on Russian Gas

Transnistria has been entirely reliant on Russian gas for its energy needs, with the Molotovka power plant generating electricity using Russian gas. The remaining gas is allocated for residential consumption.

Looking Ahead

As the gas crisis in Transnistria unfolds, the region and its residents face an uncertain future. With no immediate resolution in sight, they must brace for the cold winter ahead and explore alternative energy sources. The international community watches closely as the situation develops, with potential implications for regional stability and energy security.

Stay informed with "European Truth" for more updates on this developing story.

Ukraine‘s Foreign Minister Demands EU Ban on Russian Natural Gas: What it is, How it Works – Investopedia”>LNG Imports

Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Andrei Syshvéken, has urged the European Union (EU) to prohibit the import of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia. In a Twitter post, Sys-bis-ha labeled the current trend of increasing LNG imports from Russia as "unacceptable."

Sys-bis-ha’s call follows a Financial Times report revealing that EU countries imported a record volume of Russian LNG in 2024. The Ukrainian minister subjected, "Immediate action is required to prevent further enrichment of the Kremlin at the EU’s expense."

He suggested that the EU should impose additional sanctions, including a ban on Russian LNG imports, and replace them with supplies from the U.S. and other allies. Sys-bis-ha stressed, "There’s sufficient LNG in the market to wean Europe off Russian energy without compromising its security."

Previously, ten EU member states had proposed strengthening sanctions against Russia’s energy sector, specifically targeting LNG exports and entities aiding Moscow in circumventing existing restrictions.

Sys-bis-ha’s stern warning comes as the Ukraine continues to grapple with Russian aggression, underscoring the ethical and security implications of energy deals with Moscow.

Headline: Slovak PM Robert Fico’s Open Letter to EU Leaders Over Ukraine‘s Gas Transit Stance

Article:

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has penned an open letter to European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, expressing his discontent with Ukraine’s decision not to continue the transit of Russian gas after 2024. Fico published his letter on social media, as reported by " Yevropiska Pravda".

In his letter, Fico argues that the European Commission’s and the majority of member states’ silent approval of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s unilateral decision is irrational and disadvantageous for Europe. He warns that this move could lead to tension and retaliatory measures.

Fico asserts that Ukraine’s decision will have significant negative impacts on Europe’s efforts to keep pace with rapidly developing countries worldwide. He questions whether the Commission’s and member states’ stance is based on a thorough, professional analysis of the economic consequences or if such analysis was conducted but not openly discussed with member states.

Citing documents from Slovakia’s oil and gas company SPP, Fico insists that Europe will bear a greater brunt of the Transit from Gas than Russia. He urges EU leaders to pay heed to this unprecedented situation and address it promptly.

Notably, Slovakia has repeatedly advocated for the extension of the Ukraine-Russia gas transit agreement, which expires in 2024. However, Zelensky has stated that Ukraine will not revive the agreement with Gazprom and is unlikely to use Russian gas under the guise of other sources, such as Azerbaijan.

Last month, Fico sparked outrage when he traveled to Russia and met with Vladimir Putin, the leader of the country that annexed Ukraine’s Crimea region and continues to back separatists in eastern Ukraine. In the aftermath, Fico also threatened to halt electricity supplies to Ukraine.