Kremlin's Long-Term Goals in Moldova: Pro-Russian Government and Transnistrian Military Presence

The Kremlin aims to establish a pro-Russian government in Moldova to consolidate its military presence in the Transnistrian region, according to Prime Minister Dorin Recean in an interview with Euronews, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES

The Euronews report highlights Moldova's energy crisis following Gazprom's suspension of natural gas deliveries on 1 January 2025. PM Recean accused Moscow of triggering a humanitarian crisis in the region to destabilize Moldova's pro-European government. Residents in Transnistria reportedly face severe challenges, including limited electricity, heating, and water access.

While Moldova's government offered assistance, Tiraspol declined the support. The Moldovan side has been less affected due to reduced reliance on Russian gas since 2022, thanks to Romania's support. In contrast, the Transnistrian region remains heavily dependent on Russian gas for its Kuchurgan power station.

The report suggests that Moscow may shift blame for the gas supply interruption onto Moldova and Ukraine, following Kyiv's refusal to renew a 2019 transit agreement with Russia. With Moldova's parliamentary elections approaching, concerns are growing about potential misinformation campaigns by the Kremlin.

Brussels remains vigilant, as Moldova, an EU candidate country, receives significant financial and energy support from the bloc. The European Commission is taking steps to ensure Moldova's energy security and has called for solidarity among EU member states.

Moldova declared a state of emergency on 16 December 2024 due to the escalating crisis in Transnistria, underscoring the broader geopolitical and humanitarian implications of Gazprom's actions.