Moldovan PM’s speech in parliament on introduction of emergency state

Today we are not coming before parliament with an option. We are coming with a necessity. Moldova is directly and deliberately affected by Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. We are no longer speaking only about indirect pressure – energy blackmail or propaganda. We are speaking about actions that directly endanger the security, health and lives of our citizens.

Last night, the country’s main power line – Vulcanesti–Isaccea – was disconnected. I remind you that this line covers up to 60–70 per cent of our electricity consumption. 

The four interconnection lines with Romania have been activated, but the situation stays complicated. Starting tomorrow, the estimated deficit will reach up to 350–400 MW during peak hours. Cascading outages, as you can deduce, remain possible. We cannot rule out new attacks. We cannot wait. We are talking about direct impact on our citizens. 

The attacks on Ukraine’s civilian energy infrastructure represent a war crime. And they have direct effects on Moldova – they reach into the homes of our citizens. 

Therefore, we propose the introduction of a state of emergency in the energy sector for 60 days, starting from March 25. This is a necessary, legal and preventive measure. It allows us to act quickly, to avoid bottlenecks and most importantly – to protect people. 

And I want to answer a question directly: why a state of emergency and not a state of alert? 

Because we are not talking about a potential risk, but about an impact that has already occurred and is worsening. The energy system is affected, operating at the limit, and exposed to risks that may recur. A state of alert offers us limited tools that do not allow us to intervene comprehensively and in real time. 

By introducing the state of emergency, we will be able to: 

• Organize and maintain consumption islands supplied through the 110 kV interconnection lines. 

• Secure energy resources in an emergency regime by activating emergency aid contracts and requesting electricity from adjacent transmission system operators. 

• Intervene quickly in procurement procedures. 

We will be able to protect critical infrastructure and work directly with operators and external partners. 

If necessary, we will prioritize consumption, so that essential social institutions and the population are protected. 

I want this to be very clear: we are taking action because, in this regional context, we cannot build security on assumptions. I know there will be questions. Why a state of emergency? Why now? My answer is: because every hour counts. Because the infrastructure is affected. Because the risks are real. 

We are working in coordination with Romania and Ukraine. We are constantly monitoring the system. Field teams are prepared. Interventions are ongoing. The reconnection process is underway. But it depends on safety conditions, including demining work. 

To all MPs, the government’s call is for solidarity and unity: It is extremely important that you support this decision, that we support each other. Quickly. Responsibly. This is not a decision of the government. It is a decision for the citizens. For stability. For the safety of us all. 

To the citizens, the message is clear: In this context, it is urgently necessary to use energy responsibly. To avoid unnecessary consumption, especially during peak hours. And above all, to get information from official sources. And to stay united. 

We have already shown that we can withstand hardship. We have gone through many crises and remained standing. We will manage this situation as well. With calm, responsibility and dignity.