According to RIA Novosti, Moldovan President Maia Sandu asserted that Russia’s gas deliveries to the unrecognized Transnistrian Republic of Moldova, commonly called the PMR, are illegal under Moldova’s legal framework and in violation of prevailing international sanctions. Sandu described how shipments routed through intermediaries or through channels outside Moldova’s formal energy system bypass the state framework and undermine the commitments Moldova has made with its international partners. She emphasized that any gas supply must move through the official Moldovan energy market and be reflected in transparent accounting. The remarks come as Moldova contends with the delicate balance between meeting domestic energy needs and advancing a broader European alignment amid a volatile regional energy landscape. The report from RIA Novosti captures Sandu’s insistence on legality and transparency in all energy transactions involving the PMR, underscoring the government’s determination to preserve sovereignty over the sector and to ensure that energy flows are traceable, correctly billed, and fully compliant with national law and international obligations. Observers note that this stance could influence dealings with suppliers and transit arrangements as Moldova pursues diversification, reliability, and compliance with European energy security norms.
Sandu further explained that delivering gas through intermediaries is not only illegal under Moldova’s energy legislation but also runs counter to the sanctions regime that governs Moscow’s energy activity. By design, Moldova’s framework requires imports to pass through authorized pipelines and be verified by the state energy apparatus, with Moldovagaz playing a central role in the chain of custody and pricing. Gazprom remains the controlling shareholder in Moldovagaz, a fact that shapes the regulatory and political atmosphere surrounding Moldova’s energy market. The president’s comments highlight that legality and market integrity must guide every step in the gas supply process, from contracting to invoicing to delivery. Practically, this means any attempt to bypass the official system could trigger legal consequences and invite scrutiny by civil authorities and international partners. As European energy policy continues to adapt to supply pressures and geopolitical dynamics, Moldova aims to align its gas imports with stringent standards, ensuring transparency, accountability, and robust traceability of volumes. Analysts suggest that maintaining clear ownership disclosures and verifiable flows will be essential for reassuring citizens and allies about the reliability and integrity of Moldova’s energy system.
Sandu also noted that Gazprom’s majority stake in Moldovagaz ties Russia closely to Moldova’s energy governance, making governance and cross-border coordination a focal point in ongoing discussions about regulatory oversight and energy transit. The remarks signal a stance that seeks to anchor all key regulatory decisions in Moldova’s own market framework, rather than allowing opaque brokerage arrangements to guide energy transactions. Regional observers closely monitor the PMR issue as Moldova works to strengthen energy security while pursuing alignment with European standards. The government reiterates that every gas transaction should be transparent, well documented, and verifiable within the country’s transmission system and financial records. Updates are anticipated as authorities review contracts, transit rights, and the status of deliveries to the PMR, with energy market participants and policymakers watching for potential implications for pricing, reliability, and regional stability.