**EU Signs Deal with Moldova for Energy Independence**
The European Commission and Moldova have agreed on a two-year plan to make the country energy independent. The commission will give Moldova 250 million euros ($258 million) in 2025.
**Help for Transnistria**
Some of this money, 60 million euros ($62 million), is meant for Transnistria, a region of Moldova that Russia occupies. This area has been struggling with energy shortages since Russia cut off its gas supplies.
**Russia’s Gas Cuts**
In January, Russia stopped sending gas to Moldova and also halted the transit of Russian gas through Ukraine. Russia claimed it was due to an unpaid debt by Moldova.
**EU’s Goal**
The EU wants to help Moldova break free from relying on Russian energy. The commission says its goal is for Moldova to be fully integrated into the EU’s energy market.
**Conditions for Help**
However, the EU will only give aid to Transnistria if local authorities take steps to protect fundamental freedoms and human rights. Additionally, the money cannot be used for activities that use a lot of energy.
**Previous Aid**
The EU has already given 30 million euros ($31 million) to Moldova as part of this plan. The final step will involve investing in Moldova’s energy resilience and independence.
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