Moldova may declare a state of emergency in the energy sector, energy minister dismissed

Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean calls for a state of emergency in the energy sector. Energy Minister Victor Parlicov was dismissed after President Maia Sandu signed the order. The Prime Minister said that he would take over his duties until a new minister is appointed.

Dorin Recean also called for the dismissal of Energocom's CEO, accusing him of mismanaging gas purchases for the current winter. In addition, the prime minister called for the dismissal of a member of Moldovagaz's supervisory board who allegedly blocked profitable purchases of natural gas.

When asked by journalists who will continue negotiations with Russia's Gazprom and whether they will be continued, Recean said:

“Russia has a contractual obligation to supply gas to the border of Moldova. What else is there to discuss?”

A state of emergency in Moldova's energy sector may be introduced on December 16.

The so-called Transnistria continues to receive natural gas from Russia through the Ukrainian gas transportation system - about 5.7 mcm per day. However, the current contract for gas transit through Ukraine expires on December 31, so Transnistria may be left without natural gas supplies from the beginning of next year.