Moldova has inaugurated a new high-voltage power line linking its grid to Romania, a move officials say will reduce the country's longstanding dependence on Russian energy supplies. The line, which connects the Moldovan town of Vulcănești to Romania's Isaccea, was commissioned amid heightened energy security concerns following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and repeated disruptions to gas flows. President Maia Sandu, speaking at the launch, said the project marks a significant step toward integrating Moldova's energy system with the European network and away from Soviet-era infrastructure. She added that two more power lines to Romania are on the way, though she did not provide a timeline.
The project, backed by international donors including the European Union, is part of a broader effort by Chișinău to diversify energy sources after years of reliance on Russian gas and electricity. Moldova's pro-Western government has accused Moscow of using energy as political leverage, particularly during the winter months. Romanian officials described the link as a strategic investment in regional stability. Analysts note that while the new line boosts capacity, Moldova will need further interconnection and investment to fully decouple from Russian supplies. The Kremlin has not commented on the development.
Independent reporting synthesized from primary wires and global correspondents.