Transnistria is experiencing a severe energy crisis, marked by frequent power outages and inadequate heating for its 400,000 residents. With gas supplies dwindling, many families are resorting to unsafe heating methods, leading to tragic incidents. The region’s leader, Vadim Krasnoselski, sought assistance from Moscow, which has hinted at potential gas supply resumption. However, complications arise from Moldova’s reliance on Russian gas and the need for cooperation amid escalating tensions with Ukraine and the pro-Western Moldovan government.
The Escalating Energy Crisis in Transnistria
The energy situation in Transnistria is rapidly deteriorating. This self-proclaimed region, which is officially part of Moldova but has operated under Russian influence for nearly thirty years, is facing frequent power outages since the beginning of the year. Local residents are adapting their daily routines to accommodate the unpredictable electricity supply.
While residents experience intermittent electricity, many households are left without heating. The available gas is primarily sufficient for cooking, and this supply may soon be depleted. Some families are resorting to alternative heating methods, such as wood, which has unfortunately led to tragic incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning. The overall circumstances for the approximately 400,000 inhabitants are dire.
Russia’s Promised Assistance and Regional Tensions
Vadim Krasnoselski, the leader of the separatist government, recently visited Moscow seeking support. Traditionally, Transnistria has depended on Russian natural gas for heating, electricity generation, and its energy-intensive industries, with no prior payment requirements. However, since the start of the year, the gas supply has been cut off.
Krasnoselski reported that Moscow has indicated a potential resumption of gas supplies, although specifics remain uncertain. One feasible route for gas transport is through the Turkstream pipeline under the Black Sea, followed by the Trans-Balkan pipeline traversing Bulgaria and Romania.
Moscow even suggested purchasing gas for Transnistria on the European market, but cooperation from Moldova is essential for this to happen. This statement underscores the blame directed at Ukraine and the pro-Western Moldovan government for the ongoing challenges in Transnistria.
The immediate cause of this crisis stems from Kyiv’s decision not to renew the gas transit contract with Gazprom, the Russian state-owned energy company. Nevertheless, Russia had not made prior arrangements for alternative delivery methods, despite being contractually obligated to do so. Moldova’s gas supply agreement, which also serves Transnistria, is valid until September 2026.
It is speculated that the turmoil in Transnistria may exert pressure on Moldova’s pro-Western administration, especially since the country relies on electricity from the Cuciurgan power plant, which has been fueled by Russian gas. The energy outages are raising costs nationwide, complicating matters for President Maia Sandu’s government as parliamentary elections approach.
Notably, the Tiraspol regime has consistently declined various offers of assistance from Chisinau. The Moldovan government proposed allowing the Transnistrian gas company to purchase