The Ministry of Defense of Moldova announced that a drone crossed the country's border during the night and later broke apart near the village of Lopatna. The incident took place amid Russia's extensive missile and drone assault on Ukraine.
According to the ministry, the National Army's surveillance systems and cross-border monitoring mechanisms recorded the drone entering Moldovan airspace at 00:20 local time from the Mihailovca-Lopatna line. Following these records, security forces launched an investigation in the area.
Debris Found in Agricultural Land
Experts from the Ministry of Internal Affairs identified drone parts in an agricultural field near Lopatna. Authorities also reported findings indicating an explosion occurred before the debris was found.
The Ministry of Defense stated that specialists are examining the debris to determine the drone's origin and the circumstances of the incident. Moldovan authorities confirmed that responsible agencies continue to document the case and monitor the situation.
No Casualties or Damage Reported
Initial information indicates no casualties or material damage from the incident. Officials noted that security and border monitoring continue as investigations proceed.
Moldova has frequently reported previous instances of drone and missile debris falling on or crossing its territory during Russia's attacks on Ukraine. As Moldova is not a NATO member, it has recently strengthened its airspace surveillance and border security.
Occurred During Attack on Ukraine
The statement emphasized that the violation happened on the same night as Russia's recent large-scale air assault on Ukraine. The Ukrainian Air Force announced that Russia launched 155 unmanned aerial vehicles, including Shahed-type attack drones and decoy vehicles, from various regions overnight.
According to preliminary Ukrainian data, air defenses shot down or neutralized 124 of these drones across northern, southern, and eastern regions. The military also reported 20 drone attacks at 17 locations and debris falling in six separate areas.
The Moldovan authorities' statements indicate that the effects of the Ukraine war continue to be felt in the country's border regions. The source of the drone near Lopatna has not yet been officially confirmed, but investigations are ongoing.