Moldova Says Drone Wreckage Found Near Ukraine Border

Moldova’s defense ministry said an unmanned aerial vehicle had entered the country’s airspace overnight into Monday before wreckage showing signs of an explosion was found on agricultural land near the village of Lopatna in eastern Moldova, close to the border with Ukraine.

Monitoring systems recorded the drone crossing shortly after midnight. The ministry confirmed that fragments had been recovered and said traces at the site indicated that an explosion had already taken place.

Authorities are investigating the origin of the drone and the circumstances of the incident. The defense ministry noted that the breach came during a night-time Russian attack on neighboring Ukraine.

Moldova’s foreign ministry said the incident again highlighted the risks and wider implications of Russia’s war against Ukraine for regional security and neighboring states.

Moldova has recorded several cases in recent years in which Russian drones have crossed its airspace or debris has been found in border areas.

(reuters, bak)