EU offers 250 million euros to boost Moldova's energy security, independence

Chisinau: The European Union said Tuesday that it would support Moldova with 250 million euros ($258 million) this year to help bolster the country's energy security.

The aid announced Tuesday is part of a two-year plan aimed at "decoupling Moldova from the insecurities of Russian supply of energy and fully integrating it in the EU energy market," the European Commission said in a statement.

"Russia is blackmailing Moldova with energy, just like it once tried with the EU. Our comprehensive strategy... will put an end to this," European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen wrote on X.

After a press briefing in Chisinau, the EU's Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos wrote on X that "A stronger economy and energy security are key for Moldova's prosperity in Europe".

Moldova's President Maia Sandu hailed the new funding, saying the EU was "always... here to support us in difficult situations".

Part of the aid will help offset higher electricity prices, which have almost doubled in the country.

The EU will also provide 60 million euros ($62 million) to the residents of Transnistria, though the aid will be "subject to steps being taken on fundamental freedoms and human rights".

Moldova started transporting EU-funded gas to Transnistria on Saturday, after an initial emergency aid of 30 million euros ($31 million) from the European Union.