Moldova on brink of energy emergency after Russian strikes on Ukraine
Moldova may introduce a state of emergency in the energy sector (photo: Getty Images)
Amid massive Russian strikes on the energy system, Moldova may introduce a state of emergency in the energy sector for 60 days as early as today, March 24, according to a statement by Moldovan Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu.
"Night strikes led to the shutdown of the main power transmission line supplying Moldova with electricity – the Vulcanesti–Isaccea line. Four interconnection lines with Romania were activated, the situation remains difficult," Munteanu said.
According to him, Russia bears sole responsibility for this. He also emphasized that the Moldovan government must act promptly and responsibly.
"Today at 13:00, I convened a government meeting, and we will propose introducing a state of emergency in the energy sector for 60 days. This is not a measure of panic, but a measure of responsibility. This is a necessary step to act quickly, in a coordinated manner, and in the interest of people," he added.
He also noted that in the second half of the day, he will go to parliament together with ministers and those responsible for managing the situation to present all arguments and necessary measures, as well as to request support from deputies.
"The introduction of a state of emergency will allow us to act faster: mobilize additional resources, protect critical infrastructure and, if necessary, apply additional measures to mitigate the consequences of the crisis," Munteanu concluded.
Moldovan President Maia Sandu called the strikes on the energy sector a war crime by Russia.
"Russia's strikes on civilian energy infrastructure in Ukraine are a war crime — and an attack on all of us. Overnight strikes disconnected Moldova's key power link with Europe," Sandu said.
According to her, alternative routes exist, but the situation remains unstable, and Russia bears full responsibility for this.
Drones recorded near power lines
It is noted that downed drones were found in proximity to the damaged power line infrastructure. This requires restricting access for technical teams and conducting demining operations for the safe execution of necessary work.
What preceded
On the evening of March 23, due to Russian strikes on Ukraine, the cross-border power transmission line connecting the energy systems of Moldova and Romania was shut down. The situation remains unstable.
At the end of January, a partial blackout occurred in Moldova due to a Russian attack. At that time, a voltage drop was recorded on the 400 kV line Isaccea - Vulcanesti - MGRES, which triggered an emergency failure.
