Russian drone strikes hit Ukraine-Moldova border and Kyiv

On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, Russian forces conducted a series of drone strikes targeting a border crossing between Ukraine and Moldova, as well as the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. The assault on the Starokozache border checkpoint, located approximately 70 kilometers from Odesa and 130 kilometers from Chisinau, resulted in the deaths of two civilians and left three others wounded. The attack caused significant damage and a major fire at the facility, forcing authorities to suspend all vehicle and passenger traffic at the site.

Simultaneously, Russian forces launched a major drone offensive against Kyiv, damaging a 16-storey residential building and disrupting public services, including schools. While reports on casualties in the capital fluctuated, official updates indicated that at least one person was killed and fourteen were wounded in the overnight raids. Ukrainian border guard spokesperson Andriy Demchenko stated that Russia has struck five such border crossings in recent weeks, suggesting a strategic effort to disrupt regional logistics and trade routes. Both Ukrainian and Moldovan authorities have been coordinating to address the border situation, though the checkpoint remains closed for ongoing emergency assessment.