Moldova requests additional intervention measures on the Nistru from Ukraine
The source of pollution in the Nistru has been stopped, according to Ukrainian authorities, the Embassy of Ukraine in Moldova reports, following a meeting between Ambassador Paun Rohovei and Environment Minister Gheorghe Hajder. Chișinău has called for the urgent establishment of an effective mechanism for continuous coordination and information-sharing between the competent institutions of both countries.
Minister Gheorghe Hajder emphasized the need for further intervention by Ukraine to stop the river pollution, highlighting the strategic importance of the Nistru, which provides water for over 80% of Moldova’s population and for the Ukrainian city of Odesa.
Chișinău is requesting a swift and official exchange of updated information. In response, the Ukrainian diplomat reaffirmed the importance of continuous monitoring and outlined measures already taken to protect the river.
The two officials condemned Russia’s attacks on civilian energy infrastructure, highlighting their negative impact on the environment and regional security.
“The parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, maintaining constant dialogue, and coordinating actions to effectively manage the situation, as well as to protect the environment and the health of citizens in both countries,” the press release stated.
Authorities in Chișinău declared an environmental alert on the Nistru starting March 16, after petroleum substances were detected in the water following an attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Initially, Ukrainian authorities estimated the spill at around 1.5 tons. Later, after consultations with experts from Moldova and Romania, Chișinău’s Environment Minister stated that the volume could be much higher, “even tens of times larger.”
Several localities in northern Moldova, including the city of Bălți, remain without tap water. Drinking water is being supplied by tankers, and authorities confirm that there are sufficient reserves until pipeline deliveries resume.
