Moldova announces complete break from Russian gas
Photo: Chisinau has connected to the European power grid (Getty Images)
Moldova no longer purchases natural gas from Russia and continues to strengthen its energy independence from Moscow. This was stated by the country's President, Maia Sandu, following the launch of a new power line connecting Moldova to Romania and the European power grid.
According to the Moldovan President, the country no longer purchases Russian gas and plans to expand its capacity to import electricity from Europe in the future.
"Moldova buys zero Russian gas, and two more power lines to Romania are on the way. Thanks to all who made it happen," she writes.
Sandu also notes that for decades, Moscow has used energy as a tool for blackmail.
Moldova strengthens energy independence
On November 8, the Vulcănești–Chișinău high-voltage power line was officially inaugurated in Moldova. Stretching approximately 157 km, it connects the southern part of the country with the capital and provides an additional route for electricity supplies from Romania and the European power grid.
The new infrastructure will reduce Moldova's dependence on the Moldovan Thermal Power Plant in Transnistria, which previously supplied a significant portion of the country's electricity needs.
At the opening ceremony, Sandu stated that energy dependence had long been a tool of pressure used by Moscow.
According to her, the new line will help diversify electricity supply routes and reduce the risk of power outages.
The President emphasized that no one would be able to blackmail them, cut off their electricity, or turn off their heating anymore.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos also stated that the launch of the line was an important step toward finally overcoming Moldova's dependence on Russian energy resources.
Chișinău intends to continue developing energy connections with Romania. Specifically, plans include the construction of two more power transmission lines: Bălți–Suceava and Strășeni–Gutinaș.
The latter project, also known as the Trump Liberty Line, aims to interconnect the energy systems of Moldova and Romania. The US has approved $130 million in funding for its implementation.
Hungary also intends to stop importing Russian gas by the fall of 2027.
The European Commission has ruled out the resumption of operations on the Nord Stream gas pipeline after the end of Russia's war against Ukraine.
