Ukrainian authorities have declared that they will no longer allow the transit of Russian gas through their territory starting January 1, 2025.
Gas Shortages
According to Ziare this decision is set to profoundly affect Moldova, with Transnistria potentially facing a complete cutoff of methane gas supplies.
Republic of Moldova is slated to continue receiving natural gas from Gazprom throughout 2025, and Moldova's Minister of Energy, Victor Parlicov, has identified a contingency plan following Ukraine's decision.
Turkey or Balkan
While Transnistria faces the prospect of gas shortages, Moldova may explore gas transit routes via Turkey and the Trans-Balkan pipelines. However, the issue of costs looms large.
"Certainly, consumers on the right bank, neither Gazprom nor consumers on the left bank of the Dniester should bear these expenses. If those on the left bank take on these costs, I see no problem," remarked Victor Parlicov, Moldova's Minister of Energy, as quoted by B1TV.
The official underscored that Moldovagaz holds the gas supply contract with Gazprom, not the Moldovan state, but authorities across the Prut River are prepared for any eventuality. "If we see imminent risks of supply disruptions due to other partners or Gazprom, we will need to intervene and prepare for the worst-case scenario," added the minister.
