Threatened by the war in Ukraine, Moldova wants to break away from its dependence on Russian gas

The Russian giant Gazprom had threatened to suspend its deliveries, accusing Chisinau of not paying its debts (Illustration image).

AP - BTA Georgy Genchev

Text by: RFI Follow

2 mins

The issue of access to gas is a key issue in the war in Ukraine.

Moldova is entirely dependent on Moscow for its gas supplies, which pass through the pro-Russian territory of Transnistria.

This small country is therefore seeking to free itself as quickly as possible from Russian energy tutelage.

Advertisement

Read more

With our special correspondent in Chisinau

, 

Juliette Gheerbrant

Among the countries that have the most to lose with the war in Ukraine, Moldova, which fears to be Moscow's next target in the event of a victory for the Russian military in Ukraine. 

► To read also: Moldova: on the border with Transnistria, concern is mounting

Like everywhere else, energy prices are skyrocketing in Moldova.

In the villages many people heat themselves with wood, but in Chisinau, the capital of the country, the winter will be difficult.

Gas was cheaper when the pro-Russian parties were in power, remarks the deputy of the presidential majority, Oazu Nantoi.

“ 

Now, with a pro-European government in power, we are being blackmailed by Russia

via

Gazprom's price hike.

Last fall, for example, it is clear that Gazprom tried to foster social and political unrest in Moldova and prepare for the rise to power of pro-Russian political forces

 ,” he says.

Threats of suspension of deliveries

Gazprom had threatened to suspend deliveries, accusing Chisinau of not paying its debts.

While Moldova denounced a 40% increase in the tariff.

The war in Ukraine further complicates matters.

“ 

The situation is dramatic: we have to get out of this Gazprom monopoly.

And we are technically ready to buy gas on the EU market, but Moldova is a very poor country.

And it will be crucial to balance social stability and energy security,

 ” continues Oazu Nantoi.

Chisinau counts on EU support.

Germany, in particular, has promised to help Moldova free itself from its dependence on Russia. 

►Also read

: Russian gas: the delicate quest for a common position within the European Union

Newsletter

Receive all the international news directly in your mailbox

I subscribe

Follow all the international news by downloading the RFI application

google-play-badge_FR

  • Ukraine

  • Moldova

  • Russia

  • Energies