The European Union has pledged €250 million in support to Moldova, with €100 million already made available by mid-April, according to the European Commission website. The strategic agreement aims to assist Moldovans struggling with the energy crisis by mitigating energy costs for households and social institutions, and supporting business financing.
Furthermore, the EU is providing €60 million in aid for the Transnistrian region's energy supply, but only under certain conditions. This support comes against the backdrop of a dispute between Moldova and the Russian gas giant Gazprom over payments, as well as Ukraine's halting of gas transit.
The Brussels-based agreement will unfold in three phases, addressing immediate needs and long-term challenges:
In the first phase, the Commission approved €30 million in support on January 27, with €10 million allocated for EU electricity purchases and the remaining amount for natural gas procurement for Transnistria. The second phase, by mid-April, will provide an additional €100 million in financial assistance to Moldova, including:
The final phase will involve the Commission and international partners financing measures and investments aimed at enhancing Moldova's energy resilience and independence, as well as supporting the reduction of Moldovan energy costs. This will be incorporated into Moldova's growth plan reform program and implemented until the end of 2026, including the integration of the EU and Moldovan electricity grids.
As part of the same strategy, the EU is making €60 million available to ensure the energy supply for those living in the Transnistrian region, but only under certain conditions. The support is contingent on progress regarding the respect of fundamental freedoms and human rights.
Ensuring Moldova's energy security is crucial for Europe's long-term resilience and independence from Russian supply. This comprehensive package demonstrates our unwavering commitment to supporting the most vulnerable Moldovans.
- said Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen regarding the decision.
Gas deliveries to Moldova have been halted since the beginning of January after Ukraine stopped transit and the Moldovan government failed to settle its debt with Gazprom for consumed natural gas. This has left thousands in the region, particularly in Transnistria, without heating during the winter. Meanwhile, as reported previously, the Russian-backed breakaway state received 3 million cubic meters of gas on credit to mitigate the consequences of its severe energy crisis.