Could Transnistrian region face economic collapse without external aid?
The Transnistrian region is grappling with a growing budget deficit, exacerbated by the ongoing energy crisis. Its financial situation has reached a critical point, with expenses almost double its revenues.
This imbalance is even more concerning as the region faces the consequences of rejecting €60 million in aid from the European Union. Experts warn that, without external assistance, Transnistria could be on the brink of economic collapse within just three months.
For 2025, the region’s “budget” shows a staggering deficit of over $190 million, a result of the cessation of free Russian gas and the paralysis of industrial activity. Once dependent on Russian subsidies, Transnistria is now struggling with an economic model that appears increasingly unsustainable. Public sector employees, who have already been left without wages, are feeling the pressure of this crisis.
While some solutions, such as seeking financial help from neighboring Moldova, are being considered, experts suggest that the real path to long-term stability would require a resolution of the ongoing conflict and a reintegration of Transnistria into Moldova. Until then, the future remains uncertain as the region faces one of its most challenging economic periods to date.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
