Visit to hydropower plant and official statements
Moldova’s Environment Minister Gheorghe Hajder visited the Novodnestrovsk hydropower plant in Ukraine, 18 days after oil-like slicks were first reported on the Dniester River.
Following the visit, Hajder said the source of the pollution had been stopped, although some patches remain and are expected to reach Moldova.
“We remain vigilant,” the minister said during the visit.
The trip took place after a delay, as Ukrainian authorities had not previously allowed Moldovan or international specialists access to the facility, limiting opportunities for independent verification of information provided by Kyiv.
Earlier statements and unresolved issues
On March 17, Hajder had already stated that the source of pollution had been eliminated and that no further oil products were entering the river. However, subsequent reports of fish washing ashore and the presence of hydrocarbons in the water raised additional questions among specialists.
The situation has drawn attention to a number of unresolved issues. Moldovan authorities initially suggested possible external involvement, although no evidence has been publicly presented. At the same time, some observers noted that the type of hydrocarbons detected may not typically be associated with hydropower facilities.
Questions have also been raised about the condition of the infrastructure. During the visit, no visible damage to the facility was reported.
Political context and ongoing concerns
The developments have unfolded alongside diplomatic exchanges. Moldova recently issued a protest note to the Russian ambassador in Chișinău in connection with reported strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
At the same time, questions remain about the source of the pollution and the broader response to the situation. Authorities have reiterated that the source has been contained, while monitoring of the river continues.
