Moldova Recalls Ambassador in Russia After Drone Crashes Near Border With Ukraine

Moldova has recalled its ambassador to Russia in response to a drone crash near its border with Ukraine. The unmanned aircraft, which exploded on Sunday afternoon, crashed into a tree line near the village of Crocmaz, located across the border from Ukraine's Odesa region. Police confirmed debris scattered over a wide area and damage to several nearby homes, with Moldovan officials noting the presence of guided missile technology components in the wreckage.

This marks the first time such an aircraft has been detected on Moldovan territory since the start of Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Moldova's foreign ministry condemned the incident as a "grave violation of Moldova’s sovereignty and territorial integrity" that threatens the safety of its citizens. President Maia Sandu also expressed concern, stating the crash is a "direct consequence" of Russia's invasion and poses a growing threat to regional security. The timing of the drone explosion coincided with reports of Russian shelling of Odesa, part of Moscow's ongoing attempt to cut Ukraine off from the Black Sea.

Moldova has a history of summoning Russia's ambassador in response to similar drone incidents. The country has also taken measures such as closing a Kremlin-funded cultural center in Chisinau. Additionally, Moldova's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, potentially subjecting its staff to prosecution.

The paper, known for providing unbiased reporting on Russia, has refused to be silenced and calls for continued support to defend independent journalism in the face of repression.