Moldova ready to aid Transnistria’s energy crisis only after Russian troops leave

Moldovan President Maia Sandu has confirmed that Moldova is prepared to offer urgent assistance to Transnistria to help the region overcome its ongoing energy crisis. However, she made it clear that any substantial financial support would only be possible once Russian troops are withdrawn from the area.

In a statement on January 20, Sandu emphasized that Moldova is ready to provide immediate aid, such as generators, medical supplies, and medicines, to alleviate the humanitarian situation in Transnistria, Caliber.Az reports citing Moldovan media.

"We repeat our offer, including the assistance we can provide: generators, medical assistance, medicines – everything that people need in this period," Sandu stated.

However, she also clarified that Moldova could not offer long-term financial assistance until the region's security situation is resolved. "Financial assistance would only be possible after the withdrawal of Russian peacekeepers and the replacement of the peacekeeping mission with a civilian mission under the auspices of the UN or the EU," Sandu explained.

Sandu stressed that these conditions are vital for Moldova to be able to contribute significant support to Transnistria, particularly with the involvement of international partners. She also noted that Moldova’s own financial challenges mean that external assistance from development partners would be essential in supporting Transnistria in the long term.

The statements highlight ongoing tensions in the region, where Russian military presence has been a point of contention for Moldova. Despite offering help to ease Transnistria’s energy crisis, the Moldovan government insists that the region’s political and security landscape must first change before substantial financial support can be provided.

By Vafa Guliyeva