site.btaTwo Drones Fall in Moldova During Russian Attack on Ukraine

Two drones entered Moldova's airspace during a massive Russian drone attack on the port of Reni in Ukraine on the night to Thursday. One of the drones fell in a field near the village of Chumai in Taraclia District, the Moldovan government reported Thursday on its Telegram channel.

There were no casualties when the drone crashed and exploded upon impact with the ground. The area has been cordoned off and the authorities are inspecting the debris of the aircraft. Another drone exploded in a field between the city of Ceadir-Lunga and the village of Valea Perjei in Taraclia District. Crews are working at the scene.

Taraclia residents have reported hearing explosions.

As a result of the drone attack on Reni in Ukraine, operations at the Reni-Giurgiulesti border crossing were suspended and the Moldovan staff at the checkpoint were evacuated to the village of Giurgiulesti. Between 11:05pm and 00:40am, several explosions were reported on Ukrainian territory, according to the Southern Department of Moldova's Border Police. At 00:59am, the air raid alert in Ukraine was lifted. At 01:30am, operations at the Giurgiulești-Reni border crossing resumed.

Located in South Moldova, Taraclia District comprises 26 settlements, including the city of Taraclia and the town of Tvardita. According to the 2014 census, the district has a population of about 40,000 people, 66% of whom identify as ethnic Bulgarians. The district borders the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia, Cahul District, and Ukraine's Odesa Region.