Russian strike on Ukraine hydropower plant spills oil into Dniester River, threatening Moldova's water supply

"Moldova declared a 15-day environmental alert in the Dniester (Nistru) River basin after oil contamination linked to a Russian strike on Ukraine's Novodnistrovsk hydropower plant threatened the country's water supply.
"Russia's attack on Ukraine’s Novodnistrovsk hydropower plant has spilled oil into the Nistru River, threatening Moldova's water supply," President Maia Sandu said on March 15, adding that authorities had declared an environmental alert and were taking measures to protect residents.

Government analyses found that levels of petroleum products and aromatic hydrocarbons in the water exceeded permitted safety limits, prompting emergency measures.
Officials said authorities will install additional containment barriers at the Dubasari reservoir to prevent the spread of pollutants and will inventory water wells that could be used as alternative sources if needed.
The government also warned that restrictions on water extraction and use may be imposed in areas where contamination levels remain high.
Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu said the government's "primary objective is the protection of public health," urging citizens to rely only on official information as authorities monitor the situation and coordinate with international teams deployed through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism." KI