"Tensions rise ahead of parliamentary elections": Russia moves to halt gas supplies to Moldova

She shared these insights on Espreso.

"The aim of Russia's actions is to stoke unrest right before the parliamentary elections in Moldova. Various scenarios are being considered in the country. For instance, Russia could reserve capacity in the gas transportation system and later, once the immediate tensions ease, enter into short-term or daily agreements. This option is actively being discussed. By doing so, Russia aims to sustain ongoing pressure in the region throughout the heating season," Prysiazhnyuk said.

According to her, finding a solution will be challenging for Moldova’s authorities, as the country has long relied on Russian energy.

"There’s also a scenario in which Moldova might be forced to provide energy resources to Russian-occupied Transnistria. The question of how Transnistria will pay for this remains unresolved, given that the enclave has historically received Russian energy for free. To summarize, predicting how Moldova’s leadership will navigate this situation is difficult because of the country’s deep dependence on Russian energy," she added.

• On December 28, Russia's gas company Gazprom announced it would cut off gas supplies to Moldova starting January 1, 2025. In response, the Moldovan Prime Minister threatened to seek international arbitration.