EU praises Romania’s essential support for Moldova after Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure
The European Commission is collaborating closely with the authorities in the Republic of Moldova and Romania to enhance the regional energy network and reduce the risk of shortages, especially in light of the increased Russian attacks on Ukraine's electricity infrastructure. On December 8, Anna-Kaisa Itkonen, the Spokesperson for Energy, Climate, Transport, Housing, and Taxation, stated that the European Commission "stands firmly with Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova." She condemned "in the strongest terms" the Russian bombings that have severely damaged the energy systems of both countries.
"Russia has been systematically and ruthlessly attacking Ukrainian energy infrastructure for many years. The recent attacks this weekend have caused power outages in both Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. Moscow continues to weaponize winter as part of its ongoing war," stated Itkonen.
The European official emphasised that the EU is increasing support for both countries by financing grid repairs, facilitating the integration of energy systems into the European market, and maintaining constant communication with the authorities in Chisinau and Kyiv.
"Member states, particularly Romania in the case of Moldova, have intervened by providing urgent energy exports and emergency assistance to stabilize the grids and prevent a humanitarian crisis," the spokeswoman noted.
These statements from the European Commission are in response to the Republic of Moldova's request for energy aid from Romania on Saturday, December 6, following a significant energy group in Ukraine going out of service due to extensive attacks on electricity infrastructure.
Moldelectrica announced that the interconnection lines with Ukraine were near capacity and requested a temporary "emergency aid" to avoid overloads.
The necessary energy was supplied via the 400 kV Isaccea–Vulcănești line, pursuant to existing agreements between Transelectrica and Moldelectrica on trade and system interconnection.
Energy Minister Dorin Junghietu reported that Romania provided "approximately 100–150 MW per hour" to help stabilize the Moldovan energy system during the crisis.
While Moldova is currently able to meet its energy demand thanks to Romanian support, Ukraine had to implement scheduled outages of several hours at the end of the week.
The European Commission stated that the energy support mechanism remains active, particularly through cooperation with Romania, to quickly address any new power outages in Moldova.
