Zakharova pointed to Moldova's interest in using the energy crisis as a weapon

Moldova is interested in using the energy crisis as a weapon against Transnistria. This was stated by the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, on 30 January.

The diplomat said that the Russian side proposed a mechanism for purchasing gas and for its delivery to the unrecognized Transnistrian Moldovan Republic (TMR) under new conditions. However, according to her, Chisinau prevented the implementation of this scheme.

"Today, the authorities in Chisinau prevent the implementation of any mechanisms of humanitarian aid to Transnistria coming from both the Russian Federation and the European Union," the diplomat said on the website of the Russian Foreign Ministry.

According to her, those statements made by the Moldovan side about its readiness to end "the difficulties experienced by the Transnistrians" are declarations.

"In reality, Chisinau seems to be interested in using the energy crisis as a weapon to increase pressure on recalcitrant Transnistria," Zakharova concluded.

Gas mask phase: energy crisis worsens in Transnistria

Chisinau blocks fuel supplies to the republic

Earlier in the day, DMR Foreign Minister Vitaly Ignatiev said that at the moment there are no alternatives and mechanisms for gas supplies from Russia to Transnistria. He believed that the sooner Moldova agrees and realizes gas supplies, the sooner electricity will be supplied to the republic. Ignatiev also added that the European Commission's (EC) offer of gas aid in the form of a €30 million grant is nothing more than a "media ploy on water" that will not become a "lifeline" from the EU.

Prior to that, on January 27, Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean said that Chisinau would provide the DMR with 3 million cubic meters of gas on loan. The second phase of support is scheduled for February 1-10 and includes a €30 million EU grant to buy natural gas at an anti-crisis price to convert it into electricity. The plan will be finalized over the next two weeks.

Gas supplies from Russia to Moldova and Transnistria stopped on January 1 due to Ukraine 's refusal to extend the agreement on transit through its territory and debts of the Moldovan side to Gazprom. In mid-January, it became known that Russia was ready to provide assistance to the DMR and start humanitarian gas supplies.