Politics

23 October, 2026 / 20:14

/ 1 hour ago

Staff member of Russia's Embassy in Moldova to be declared persona non grata after explosive-laden drone crashed in Telenesti district

A staff member of Russia’s Embassy in Chisinau will be declared persona non grata. The decision today evening was announced by the Foreign Affairs Ministry (MAE), in response to the violation of Moldova’s national airspace and the incident in the village of Chistelnita, central Telenesti district, where a drone loaded with explosives crashed approximately 100 meters from a residence.

The institution emphasized that the incident constituted a serious violation of Moldova’s sovereignty and security and represents a direct threat to the safety of citizens.

“Such actions are unacceptable and once again demonstrate the risks generated by the Russian Federation’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Moldova calls on the Russian Federation to cease actions that endanger regional security and people’s lives,” the MFA stated.

A drone today crashed in the village of Chistelnita, Telenesti district, at a distance of 100 meters from a residence. No casualties were reported. Police are at the scene and have cordoned off the area to examine the object.

The Defense Ministry announced that two cases of violations of Moldova’s national airspace had been recorded between October 16 and 23, this year. The first incident occurred on the evening of October 16, while the second took place today, October 23. In both cases, the drones fell to the ground.

Since the beginning of this year, 65 incidents involving violations of Moldova’s airspace have been recorded, including 17 in October. From 2022 to the present, the total number of recorded incidents has reached 102.

The authorities reiterate that any discovery of drones or their fragments must be reported immediately to the authorities by calling the 112 emergency service. Citizens are also urged not to approach, touch, or move suspicious objects.

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