Moldovan government denies “manipulations” regarding plans to establish drone factory in Chisinau

The government of Moldova does not intend to establish, nor is it currently considering options for locating military-purpose factories on the country’s territory, dismissing as manipulative the information circulating publicly about the alleged establishment of a drone factory in Chisinau. The government’s spokesperson, Dumitru Ciorici, has conveyed a message to this effect, in response to statements made by Chisinau Mayor Ion Ceban today.

The spokesperson for the cabinet of ministers stressed that the security sector stayed a national priority, but any potential investment in the industry is conditional on amendments to the legislation in force.

“The country’s security is a priority for the government and is a daily concern for us. In principle, we want investments in the defense sector, but they will be possible only after the legal framework is amended. Therefore, no options for locating military-purpose factories in Moldova are currently being considered,” Dumitru Ciorici said.

The official clarifications were issued after Chisinau Mayor Ion Ceban had posted a message on social media, claiming that he had information about the preparation and installation of equipment for a drone factory in the Chisinau municipality.

“Drones, and once again about drone production. According to the information I have, equipment is already being installed and conditions are being created for this factory to be located in the municipality of Chisinau. Now, a question for the authorities: Is this information true? If so, on what basis? If so, who are the people installing it and why is this happening?” Ion Ceban said.

Lilian Carp, chair of the parliamentary commission for national security and public order, says that, under current legislation, launching production lines in the defense industry required complex legislative amendments, parliamentary debates, and strict security regulations.

“We do not even have the legislation to be able to discuss this matter. Ceban’s statements are part of Russian propaganda. They want Moldova to be a weak country that cannot defend itself. Neutrality does not mean that you should not develop defense capabilities. This is manipulation by Ceban. No one yet knows where or under what conditions this factory would be built; there are not even hypothetical discussions on the matter,” the parliamentarian emphasized.

The number of incidents involving violations of Moldova’s airspace has reached 100 since 2022. Seven incidents alone were recorded during October 10-16, 2026, the Defense Ministry said.

Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu has earlier said that the authorities intended to create the necessary legal framework for developing drone production in Moldova. According to the official, the country must meet its own needs and drones could be used both to strengthen defense and manage emergency situations, as well as in agriculture and other fields. Grosu stressed that amending the legislation would allow industrial production to develop in this sector.