Six Russian drones reportedly crossed into Moldovan airspace during Moscow’s latest large-scale attack on Ukraine, raising fresh concerns about the war’s expanding security consequences for neighboring countries.
The incursions occurred overnight as Russian forces launched missiles and drones against Kyiv and several other Ukrainian regions. Moldovan monitoring systems detected repeated violations along the country’s eastern border, which it shares with Ukraine.
Moldova’s Defense Ministry initially published flight details for five drones detected over different border areas, while subsequent international reports put the total number of incursions at six. Some of the aircraft reportedly returned to Ukrainian airspace after briefly flying over Moldovan territory.
No casualties were immediately reported in Moldova. Nevertheless, the repeated incursions generated concern about the danger to civilians, critical infrastructure and commercial aviation.
President Maia Sandu strongly condemned the violations, describing them as an act of intimidation. The incident occurred only hours before Moldova celebrated the 35th anniversary of its independence.
Sandu said Moldova would remain independent and continue pursuing membership in the European Union despite pressure from Moscow. She also called for stronger regional air defenses and additional international assistance for Ukraine.
The incident has renewed discussions about Moldova’s limited capacity to detect and intercept modern aerial threats. Unlike neighboring Romania, Moldova is not a member of NATO and possesses relatively modest military and air-defense capabilities.
Moldovan authorities have been working with European partners to improve aerial surveillance and defensive systems. Sandu said the country would continue strengthening its air defenses following the latest incursions.
Russian missiles and drones have previously entered or crashed inside Moldova and neighboring Romania during attacks on Ukrainian targets near the Danube and Black Sea regions. Moldovan officials have repeatedly described such incidents as violations of the country’s sovereignty and a threat to regional security.
The latest breach illustrates how Russia’s continuing aerial campaign against Ukraine carries risks beyond the immediate battlefield, particularly for smaller countries located close to frequently targeted Ukrainian regions.
