Key facts
- A Russian Geran drone fell near homes and an energy facility in Kistelnita, Telenesti District.
- Moldova declared a Russian embassy member persona non grata on October 23, 2026.
- The drone entered Moldovan airspace at 1:59 p.m. local time during a Russian attack on Ukraine.
Moldova declared a member of the Russian embassy in Moldova persona non grata on October 23, 2026, after a Russian drone violated the country's airspace and fell near homes and an energy facility. President Maia Sandu stated that Russia's war continues to put Moldovan lives at risk, calling it Russia's "latest dangerous act."
The drone was found about 100 meters from a residential building in Kistelnita village, Telenesti District. Earlier that day, the drone entered Moldovan airspace at 1:59 p.m. local time during a large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine, according to Moldova's defense ministry. The drone was tracked briefly before being lost again near Meseni in Rezina district.
These incidents highlight the increasing security risks to Moldova and the region due to Russia's war in Ukraine. Russian aerial incursions into Moldovan territory have become more frequent, with previous incursions recorded during an overnight attack on October 16. Moldova has previously raised concerns about these violations, with President Sandu stating the war is "dangerously reaching Moldova."