Russian attacks on Ukraine trigger energy emergency in Moldova
Moldova introduced a state of emergency in the energy sector (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
The Moldovan parliament declared a state of emergency in the energy sector following the disconnection of the Isaccea–Vulcănești power line, which was caused by Russian strikes on Ukraine’s infrastructure, reports NewsMaker.
The decision was made on the evening of Tuesday, March 24, during an emergency session. A total of 72 MPs voted in favor, while 18 abstained.
Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu emphasized that the introduction of the state of emergency is a necessary, lawful, and preventive measure.
According to him, the state of emergency will allow for faster mobilization of additional resources, protection of critical infrastructure, and, if necessary, the implementation of additional measures to minimize damage from the crisis.
The Moldovan prime minister said several scenarios are being considered to supply Moldova with electricity. These include restoring the Isaccea–Vulcănești line, connecting to the Romanian grid via Galați, purchasing electricity from Romania through Ukraine, or combining these options.
What preceded this
Earlier today, Munteanu reported that Russia’s overnight strikes on Ukraine had cut off the main power line supplying Moldova with electricity - the Isaccea–Vulcănești line. He added that four interconnection lines with Romania are currently in use, but the situation remains challenging.
Moldova’s prime minister stressed that Russia bears sole responsibility for the situation. President Maia Sandu called the strikes on energy infrastructure a Russian war crime.
On the evening of March 23, Russian strikes on Ukraine caused a cross-border power line connecting the energy systems of Moldova and Romania to go offline.
Additionally, in late January, Moldova experienced a partial blackout due to Russian shelling. At that time, a voltage drop was recorded on the 400 kV Isaccea–Vulcănești–MGRES line, triggering an emergency failure.
