Some media outlets have also reported this crisis. One lady who was interviewed said: ‘People are stocking up for the winter. They have heat but are not using it any more’. Another said: ‘Energy prices have increased. We are receiving enormous bills. Inflation here is higher than in Ukraine’.
Inflation is running as high as 50% on some foodstuffs. Energy is at the root of the price increases in Moldova, as it is around the world, but there are additional reasons.
According to media reports, all powerlines come from Romania, Ukraine and the breakaway Russian territory of Transnistria which lies between Ukraine and Moldova. The energy supply is extremely vulnerable to disruption due to the war in Ukraine including the supply through Transnistria.
It is believed that Russia does not want Moldova to move any closer to the European Union, so pressure is being applied through energy supplies. People in Moldova believe that Russia is using economic levers to bring about political goals.
There are deep divisions among Moldovans about the way forward. People protest on the streets of the capital for stronger ties with Russia. Many feel that they were much better off when they had a closer relationship with Russia.
Moldova has been described as being torn between east and west. The current government is keen for closer ties with the European Union but faces strong opposition.
SGA’s concern is for the sponsored missionary families in this economically poor country which is facing these fresh challenges. We are delighted to report that through the support of partners in UK & Ireland, SGA was able to send emergency funds to help our 16 sponsored missionary families through the current hardships and difficulties.
Peter Mihalchiuk, explained the significance of this extra financial support.
Most importantly, this is for gas and firewood. We are expecting a very difficult winter- maybe the most difficult yet in the last 50 years because we have little money, no firewood, coal, no way to heat our homes. So, I believe it helps our missionaries to heat their homes. It is not only financial help but a huge encouragement for our missionaries.