Fri Dec 13 14:20:32 UTC 2024: ## Moldova Declares Energy Emergency Amidst Fears of Russian Gas Cut-off

**Chisinau, Moldova –** Moldova declared a state of emergency in its energy sector on Friday, December 13th, 2024, fearing Russia may cut off natural gas supplies this winter. The 60-day emergency, starting December 16th, follows a parliamentary vote and comes amidst concerns that Russia could weaponize energy to destabilize the country.

The decision is primarily driven by anxieties over the supply of gas to the Kuciurgan power plant, Moldova’s largest, located in the pro-Russian separatist region of Transnistria. This plant, privatized and now owned by a Russian state-owned company, generates a significant portion of Moldova’s electricity. Moldova does not recognize the privatization.

Prime Minister Dorin Recean stated that the move is in response to an “exceptional situation,” highlighting the potential for Moscow to leave Moldovans “in the middle of winter without heat and electricity.” He stressed that this action is a deliberate attempt to create panic and chaos. He assured citizens that the government would prevent anyone from being left without power or heat. Transnistria itself also declared a state of emergency this week due to similar concerns.

Moldova, a former Soviet republic, was entirely reliant on Russian gas until 2022, but has since worked to diversify its energy sources. Romania’s energy minister, Sebastian Burduja, pledged support to Moldova should the situation necessitate it.

This move comes after Moldovan President Maia Sandu secured a second term and the country voted to strengthen its path toward EU membership in October, both events overshadowed by alleged Russian interference. The declaration underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions and energy security challenges facing Moldova.

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