Moldova: Moldova announced the declaration of a 30-day state of alert in its energy and hydrological sectors to mitigate potential fuel shortages and safeguard its water supplies. This measure aims to address recent challenges affecting the country's supply chains.

According to Anadolu Agency, the government cited various disruptions impacting regional fuel markets, which are primarily driven by an increase in global oil and diesel prices, ongoing conflict in the Middle East, a temporary suspension of Kazakh crude exports through Russia's Novorossiysk terminal, and notably low water levels on the Danube River. These issues have collectively strained the nation's fuel supply chains, leading to a decrease in commercial diesel reserves from 17.6 days' supply at the end of June to just 6.9 days' supply. Additionally, as of Sunday, 53 filling stations across Moldova had run out of diesel.

To combat these challenges, the government has introduced emergency measures aimed at streamlining fuel imports, prioritizing customs clearance, and establishing 'green corridors' at borders to facilitate the flow of essential supplies. Furthermore, it plans to curb speculative buying within the market. The authorities have also imposed restrictions on diesel and gasoline exports from the Port of Giurgiulesti, permitting them only if the country's minimum domestic fuel reserves are maintained.

In response to the hydrological challenges, the government declared a hydrological alert due to significantly reduced water levels in the Dniester basin. Officials warned that diminished water releases from the Novodnistrovsk reservoir could potentially disrupt drinking water supplies. In light of this, the authorities are assessing alternative water sources, preparing reserve wells, and increasing the monitoring of water resources to ensure the population's needs are met.