Pro-Russian separatist authorities in the breakaway region of Transnistria, Moldova, reported on Sunday that an explosion at a military site was likely triggered by a drone launched from Ukraine.
Transnistria, predominantly Russian-speaking and historically reliant on Moscow’s support, declared independence from Moldova following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
In a social media statement, authorities disclosed: “Today a fire occurred on the territory of a military base in Tiraspol as a result of an explosion.
“It was preliminarily established that the explosion was caused by a kamikaze drone attack.”
Officials are saying the drone originated from Ukraine’s Odesa region.
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No injuries were reported as a result of the incident, and separatist officials have initiated a criminal investigation. As of now, there has been no response from Kyiv or Moscow regarding the explosion.
Last month, Transnistria sought “protection” from Russia, heightening concerns that the region could escalate tensions between Moscow and neighboring Ukraine.
Transnistria is pro-Russian, unlike wider Moldova. Moldova released a statement dismissing these concerns, claiming it as a propaganda move and that there is no risk of escalation.
In 2006, the separatist territory conducted a referendum on integration with Russia, resulting in an overwhelming majority in favor of such a move.
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