Transnistria refused to buy gas from west and waits on Russian supply
Introduction
Transnistria, the Russian-occupied region of Moldova, has indeed refused to purchase gas from Western sources and is instead waiting for Russia to resume gas supplies. This decision has led to a significant energy crisis in the region.
Refusal of Western Gas
On January 3, 2025, Vadim Cheban, head of the Moldovan state energy company Moldovagaz, reported that Transnistria rejected Chisinau’s offer to assist in purchasing gas via European platforms. Transnistrian authorities cited concerns about “higher and unstable” energy prices as the reason for their refusal.
Expectation of Russian Gas Resumption
Transnistrian officials have expressed belief that Gazprom, Russia’s state-controlled energy giant, will resume natural gas deliveries. This expectation persists despite Gazprom halting gas deliveries to Moldova on January 1, 2025, citing alleged unpaid debts by Moldovagaz.
Current Energy Crisis
The suspension of Russian gas supplies has triggered a severe energy crisis in Transnistria:
Approximately 72,000 private households lack gas
1,500 apartment buildings are without heating or water
Nearly 75,000 households are without gas, and another 116,000 have reduced supply
Widespread power outages threaten industrial stability in the region
Political Implications
This situation may be part of a broader Russian strategy to influence Moldova’s political landscape:
Russia might be creating an artificial energy crisis to destabilize Moldova
There are speculations that Russia may partially restore gas supplies to promote a pro-Russian politician ahead of Moldova’s parliamentary elections in autumn 2025
Transnistria’s Dependence on Russian Gas
Transnistria has been heavily reliant on Russian gas for decades:
The region received Russian gas nearly free of charge to sustain its industries and power generation
The Cuciurgan power station, powered by Russian gas, was a significant source of electricity for Moldova and revenue for Transnistria
Conclusion
Transnistria’s refusal to accept Western gas and its expectation of resumed Russian supplies have placed the region in a precarious position, facing a harsh winter without adequate heating and energy resources.
