Moldova Declares Emergency After Russia Strikes Power Line

Moldova has declared a state of emergency in the energy sector after a key power line with Europe was disconnected following Russian strikes in Ukraine. The declaration comes into effect on Wednesday and lasts for 60 days. The prime minister, Alexandru Munteanu, appealed to people to "avoid unnecessary consumption, especially during peak hours" and "stay united", according to a statement from parliament.

The former Soviet republic imports electricity from neighboring EU member Romania, mostly via a power cable that passes through southern Ukraine. Moldovan authorities said crashed drones had been identified in Ukraine near the line and that "demining operations" were needed before repairs could be done. Restoring the power line itself was expected to take up to seven days, the energy minister, Dorin Junghietu was quoted by the Moldovan media outlet Ziarul de Gardă as saying.

"Russia alone bears responsibility," the Moldovan president, Maia Sandu, wrote on X, while the foreign ministry also condemned the Russian attacks. Russia has frequently targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure since it invaded its neighbor in 2022, causing widespread blackouts and disruptions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of "absolute depravity" after Moscow fired an unprecedented daytime barrage across Ukraine, hitting cities and infrastructure. The strikes came as Ukraine's forces were making gains in the south and east.

The latest attacks highlight how Russia is intensifying its offensive, even as Ukraine's counteroffensive continues. This spring offensive by Russia is seen as a crucial moment in the war, with both sides looking to gain the upper hand. The situation remains fluid, and the impact on Moldova underscores how the conflict in Ukraine continues to reverberate across the region.