# Moldova Ends Russian Gas Reliance, Connects to European Power Grid President Maia Sandu confirms zero Russian gas imports alongside new EU grid integration. - **Source:** [The Kyiv Independent](https://kyivindependent.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/8612b4c7-2bbb-48b6-9ae7-a48d835afbd2 ## Strategic Energy Decoupling Moldovan President Maia Sandu officially announced on November 8, 2026, that the country no longer imports any Russian gas. This move marks a definitive end to decades of energy dependence on Moscow. The administration views this shift as a critical step in neutralizing Russia's historical ability to use energy supplies for geopolitical blackmail. ## New Infrastructure Milestone The government launched the Vulcanesti-Chisinau power line, a 400-kilovolt extra-high-voltage connection spanning 158 kilometers. This infrastructure project is designed to integrate Moldova directly into the European power grid via Romania. By bypassing previous reliance on regional networks, the country secures a more stable and independent energy supply for its national grid system. ## Expanding European Connections Beyond the newly launched Vulcanesti-Chisinau line, President Sandu confirmed that two additional power lines connecting Moldova to Romania are currently in development. These projects are central to Chisinau's broader strategy of deepening institutional ties with the European Union. The goal is to ensure full energy synchronization with European standards and future membership. ## Ending Transnistrian Dependency Moldova previously relied heavily on the Cuciurgan power station located in the Russian-occupied Transnistria region. This facility, the largest in the country, is owned by the Moscow-based energy giant Inter RAO. By securing alternative power routes, Moldova effectively reduces the influence of Russian-controlled assets over its domestic energy security and national stability. ## Regional Geopolitical Context Russia has long utilized gas exports as a primary tool to exert pressure on European governments. Since the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the European Union has aggressively moved to reduce Russian energy imports. The bloc is currently preparing to implement a total ban on all Russian gas supplies starting next year. ## Diplomatic Energy Hurdles While Washington reportedly proposed resuming gas exports to Europe through a U.S. intermediary to generate revenue for Ukraine, the EU remains skeptical. An official confirmed that the bloc is unlikely to agree to such proposals. The European Union maintains a firm commitment to completely shutting off Russian energy imports regardless of intermediary schemes. ## Broader European Integration The transition away from Russian energy is a cornerstone of Moldova's aspiration to join the European Union. By aligning its energy infrastructure with European networks, Moldova strengthens its sovereignty against external political pressure. This technical integration serves as a tangible demonstration of the country's commitment to European political and economic standards. ## Long-term Energy Security The successful launch of the Vulcanesti-Chisinau line represents a significant shift in the regional energy landscape. By diversifying supply routes and eliminating reliance on Russian-owned infrastructure, Moldova enhances its long-term resilience. This development serves as a model for other nations seeking to decouple their critical infrastructure from hostile geopolitical influence in Europe. ## Sources covering this story - https://kyivindependent.com/moldova-buys-zero-russian-gas-launches-new-power-line-to-eu/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._