Question: Based on reports coming from Transnistria, despite external aid proposals, the situation around the energy crisis in the region is not improving and is, in fact, close to a humanitarian catastrophe. How can you explain that?
Maria Zakharova: We are seriously concerned that the problem of natural gas supplies to Transnistria, which arose after Ukraine closed Russian energy transit via its territory on January 1, is being prolonged. Economic and social difficulties in Transnistria are growing incrementally. The reasons for the continued delays and objections from the Moldovan side regarding the options proposed by external partners remain unclear.
The Russian side has suggested a clear mechanism for purchasing gas and delivering it to Transnistria under new conditions. Chisinau has balked at this proposal.
The European Union has also interfered, announcing a grant aid package of 30 million euros to cover the region’s urgent energy needs. Tiraspol welcomed the financial aid proposed by the EU. But here too, Chisinau started to impose conditions and reservations. We hear contradictory statements from the Moldovan side. It has reached a point where the leaders of Transnistria have had to publicly address the European Commission with a request to influence the Moldovan side.
Officials in Chisinau are thus obstructing any humanitarian aid to Transnistria coming from either the Russian Federation or the European Union. This constitutes a grave violation of the 1992 Treaty on the Principles of Peaceful Settlement of the Transnistrian Crisis, which contains a clear obligation “to prevent any sanctions or blockades” and “to remove any hindrances to the movement of goods, services and people.”
We are left with the impression that the claims of readiness to end the hardship faced by the Transnistrian people, constantly voiced by the Moldovan side, are merely declarations. The reality is that Chisinau seems to be interested in using the energy crisis as a weapon to exert more pressure on the rebellious Transnistria.