Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration, Oleg Serebrian, has expressed grave concerns over the potential cessation of natural gas deliveries to the Transnistrian region, labeling such a “humanitarian catastrophe.” Speaking on a public TV station, Serebrian highlighted the challenges Moldova will face regarding gas supplies after January 1, 2025, especially if Ukraine disrupts transit under the current contract with Gazprom.
“This issue extends beyond the Transnistrian region. It affects settlements within Chisinau-controlled areas as well. Approximately 30,000 residents on the right bank of the Dniester River, including Varnita, Copanca, and nearly all of Dubasari district, rely on this gas distribution network. Moreover, it concerns the citizens living in the Transnistrian region, most of whom are Moldovan nationals. The interruption of gas deliveries would not just create a crisis but lead to an economic and humanitarian collapse,” Serebrian stated.
He emphasized the cascading effects, including the collapse of the electricity delivery system and the impact on tens of thousands of families on both sides of the Dniester River.
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Negotiation as a Responsibility
Serebrian stressed that Moldova has a responsibility to avoid such dire scenarios. “Even if negotiations are undesirable, the state must act to save its citizens, especially when the stakes involve hundreds of thousands of people and the stability of communities on both sides of the Dniester,” he remarked.
Addressing Public Concerns on Negotiations with Gazprom
The deputy prime minister also addressed public reactions to Energy Minister Victor Parlicov’s recent visit to Moscow to meet with Gazprom CEO Alexey Miller.
“I’ve observed debates around this visit, but it was neither unexpected nor extraordinary. Many entities, including those in the European Union, engage with Gazprom. These discussions are pragmatic and serve Moldova’s interests,” Serebrian explained.
Exploring Alternative Scenarios
Serebrian revealed that Moldova’s Energy Ministry and other relevant agencies have considered various alternatives for gas supply. However, many options are costly and complex.
“Our priority is to ensure affordable gas supply to the Transnistrian region and right-bank settlements without disrupting daily life. In the current volatile political and security context, stability for citizens is paramount. Any government is obligated to assess such scenarios carefully and pragmatically,” he noted.
Next Steps
The ongoing negotiations aim to secure uninterrupted gas deliveries post-2025. Minister Parlicov will provide further details and updates during a press conference on November 27.
The November 25 meeting between Minister Parlicov and Gazprom CEO Alexey Miller focused on ensuring gas supply continuity for Moldova, particularly the Transnistrian region, under the current contract framework if Ukrainian transit ceases.