The government is in the process of identifying potential lawyers to assist the Republic of Moldova in a litigation it would initiate against the Russian concern Gazprom. Prime Minister Dorin Recean told the press, IPN reports.

The lawyers to be identified will also assist in the process of recovering energy assets taken over in one way or another by the Russian Federation.

The Prime Minister was also asked about the hearing of the former director of Chisinau-Gaz and Metalferos, Arcadie Vicol, by the Intelligence and Security Service. He is allegedly suspected of treason and enemy activities in favor of the Russian Federation.

"I know about these hearings, which are continuing. We will absolutely not allow anyone to be part of the scenario of Russia's hybrid aggression here in Chisinau," Dorin Recean said.

Gas deliveries to the Transnistrian region have been suspended since January 1 by Russian Gazprom, which has invoked the non-payment of a debt of 709 million dollars, an amount unconfirmed by Chisinau. More than 51 000 households in the Transnistrian region have been left without gas and almost 1 500 blocks of flats have no heating or hot water.

The Moldovan leadership has accused the Kremlin of deliberately provoking the crisis in the region to destabilize the situation on the right bank of the Dniester, citing contractual obligations that Gazprom has not respected.