Russia has accused Moldova of plotting a military operation in Transnistria, a Russian-backed secessionist region, setting off concerns among some analysts that Moscow might be a “false flag” attack in Moldova.

A Russian missile entered Moldovan airspace during a mass attack on Ukraine on Dec. 25, Moldovan President Maia Sandu confirmed. On Christmas morning, Russia launched more than 70 missiles and over 100 drones, targeting Ukraine 's energy infrastructure. At least one person was killed, and six others were injured, local authorities said.

During a massive strike on Ukrainian energy facilities on December 25, a Russian missile crossed the airspace of Moldova. This was stated by the President of the Republic of Maia Sandu, condemning the Russian strikes and calling the incident a "violation of international law.

The missile flew about 140 kilometers over the two countries after entering Moldova near the Ukrainian town of Yampil, Vinnytsia Oblast, and returning to Ukraine near the Romanian town of Darabani. Moldovan President Maia Sandu strongly condemned Russia's violation of Moldova's airspace as well as its attack on Ukraine's power grid.