Russia is using energy as a political weapon, holding the residents of the Transnistrian region - controlled through the illegal presence of its army - as hostages, stated the Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova, Dorin Recean, while commenting on Gazprom's decision to cut gas supplies to the Transnistrian region, IPN reports.

“The government condemns these oppressive tactics and reiterates that it does not recognize any alleged debts, which have been invalidated by an international audit”, Recean declared.

The Prime Minister also mentioned that the Republic of Moldova might resort to international arbitration to protect its national interests and seek compensation for the Kremlin’s decisions, which have caused economic losses and jeopardized the safety of the country's citizens.

Recean emphasized that Moldova has diversified its natural gas supply sources to reduce reliance on a single supplier for the right bank of the Dniester River.

“Our country is prepared to handle any situation arising from the Kremlin’s decision. We will continue to secure natural gas supplies from alternative sources and protect vulnerable consumers”, added Dorin Recean.