Tiraspol Rejects Moldovan Humanitarian Aid Amid Energy Crisis Sparked by Gazprom

The Tiraspol regime has refused humanitarian aid offered by Moldovan authorities to citizens on the left bank of the Dniester River, amid an energy crisis triggered by Gazprom's decision to cease natural gas deliveries to eastern Moldova starting January 1, 2025. Moldovan President Maia Sandu addressed the issue following a meeting with key government officials, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES

President Sandu accused Russia of attempting to destabilize Moldova, influence the 2025 elections, and derail the country’s path toward European Union integration.

While gas supplies for the right bank of the Dniester are secured for the heating season, the situation on the left bank remains precarious. Despite proposals for humanitarian aid—covering food, medicine, fuel, generators, and medical transport—the Tiraspol regime declined assistance.

Gazprom claims the suspension is due to an alleged decade-old debt, which international audits have deemed nonexistent. Sandu emphasized that low wages in the Transnistrian region, where incomes are 60% lower than on the right bank, exacerbate residents' struggles to afford energy resources.

Calling for unity and solidarity, President Sandu urged citizens to use energy resources wisely and remain confident in Moldova’s resilience. Prime Minister Dorin Recean added that the government is prepared to manage the fallout and condemned Gazprom’s tactics, reiterating that Moldova does not recognize the alleged debt.