Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on January 25 that Ukraine is ready to meet the energy needs of residents in the Transnistrian region by supplying coal, IPN reports. 

During a press conference following a meeting with the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, Zelensky emphasized that if Transnistria is unsure how to utilize a different type of coal, Ukraine is prepared to send specialists.

Zelensky noted that Ukraine has sufficient coal resources that it can share with Moldova. “We can also supply coal to Tiraspol if they want. Of course, they might claim that this coal is not technically suitable, but, by the way, they are already using Ukrainian coal. This is anthracite coal, which Russia stole after occupying parts of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of our country,” Zelensky stated.

Regarding payment for the coal, Zelensky mentioned that this aspect is open for negotiation. “We are ready to discuss a reduced price or even supply coal for free if we receive electricity in return. I believe that is fair,” the Ukrainian president explained.