President Maia Sandu has explained why Moldova does not purchase natural gas from Russia, acknowledging that regional energy prices are putting pressure on household budgets. She made the remarks following a meeting of the Supreme Security Council.
According to the president, Russia first reduced and then halted gas deliveries to Moldova in 2022, in breach of the terms of its contract. Following the expiration of the gas transit agreement through Ukraine, Russia also stopped supplying natural gas to the Transnistrian region, where it supports a separatist regime.
Sandu also said that, in her view, Russia’s revenues from energy sales are used to finance the war in Ukraine and drone attacks.
“Let us not forget that the money Russia earns from selling energy resources is used to kill innocent people in Ukraine and to send drones, including into our airspace, putting people’s security at risk,” the president said.
At the same time, Sandu said the authorities are aware of the pressure energy prices are placing on households. She noted that in recent winters, the Government has provided compensation to ease the burden of utility bills.
“Every tariff increase is strongly felt by our families. I know that citizens are worried about the coming winter,” Sandu said.
The president acknowledged that developments in energy prices and regional and international conflicts remain difficult to predict.
“I will not tell you that it will be easy, but I am confident that we will get through this winter as well and that we will continue to stand by families, especially the most vulnerable ones,” Maia Sandu said.