Russian Drone Fragments Reportedly Found in Moldova After Massive Attack on Ukraine

Moldovan police discovered two drones on the country’s territory following Russia’s massive attack on Ukraine on the night of February 13.

One drone crashed in a field near the village of Chumai in the Taraclia district, while the other exploded in a field 1.5 km (0.9 miles) from the city of Ceadîr-Lunga.

“The technical-explosives experts from the police are currently at both locations conducting investigations. The drones will be examined in greater detail later. According to the preliminary investigation, the fragments found in Ceadîr-Lunga belong to a Russian drone,” the General Inspectorate of Police reported.

The Moldovan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also summoned the Russian ambassador in response to recent developments.

“The Ministry expresses deep concern and strongly condemns the repeated violations of national airspace by drones launched following Russian attacks on infrastructure in southern Ukraine,” the ministry’s statement read, adding that Moldova considers these actions a violation of its sovereignty and a threat to regional peace and security.

“We reiterate our firm call for the immediate cessation of these aggressive actions and strict adherence to international law,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu confirmed on X that Shahed-type drones had violated the country’s airspace.

If confirmed to be Russian, this would not have been the first time drone debris has fallen in Ukraine’s neighboring countries after Moscow’s attacks.

On the morning of November 10, 2024, a drone was discovered in the Căuşeni district in the south of Moldova, near the village of Fîrlădeni.