President Maia Sandu said five Russian air-attack systems, including "Banderol" missiles and drones, crossed into Moldova and exploded on its territory. The Moldovan military reported explosions in the south-east but no casualties or damage were reported. A local air-raid alert was also triggered in nearby Odesa, Ukraine. Moldova's location between Ukraine and EU member Romania heightens concerns about potential spillover amid previous airspace violations.
Russian Missiles and Drones Hit Moldovan Soil, President Says
FILE PHOTO - Moldova's President Maia Sandu speaks during a press conference at the presidential palace. (is associated with: «Russian drones and missiles strike Moldovan territory, president says») Kay Nietfeld/dpa
Moldovan President Maia Sandu said on Saturday that multiple Russian aerial weapons struck Moldovan territory, posting on X that five Russian air-attack systems — including so-called "Banderol" missiles and several drones — violated Moldova's airspace and detonated on its soil.
"Moscow is putting lives at risk across Europe and must be stopped," Sandu wrote on X.
The Moldovan military reported explosions were heard in localities in the south-eastern part of the country. Authorities said there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.
Officials also recorded a local air-raid alert in the adjacent southern Ukrainian region of Odesa, where sirens were reported as Ukrainian air defenses responded to incoming weapons.
Moldova lies between Ukraine and Romania, an EU member state, and its proximity to the conflict has raised concerns about spillover. Russian missiles and drones have reportedly violated Moldovan airspace on several previous occasions since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.
What Officials Have Said
The president’s message and military statements underline both the immediate local impact — explosions heard in southeastern villages — and the wider diplomatic alarm in Chisinau. Moldova has repeatedly sought international support and assurances as incidents near its borders increase the risk to civilians.
Help us improve.
