
Russian energy giant Gazprom says Moldova owes $709M in unpaid debt and will stop gas supplies at 0500 GMT on New Year’s Day.
Moldova disputes the amount, claiming it’s only $8.6M.
The shutdown risks severe blackouts in Moldova and the breakaway Transdniestria region, which relies on Russian gas to generate cheap electricity.
Moldovan PM Recean called it “another Kremlin power play,” accusing Russia of using energy as a weapon, though Moscow denies this.
Moldova says it’s prepared, having diversified gas sources, but warns of cuts to power exports and usage.
A state of emergency has already been declared.
Source: Reuters