Moldova changes operation of three checkpoints with Ukraine due to Russian attacks

Moldova will temporarily change the organization of control at three border crossing points with Ukraine due to risks associated with Russian air strikes. Moldovan border guards and customs officers who currently work on Ukrainian territory will be relocated to the Moldovan side of the border.

The Border Police of the Republic of Moldova reported this Border Police of the Republic of Moldova.

The changes concern the Giurgiulesti - Reni, Briceni - Rossoshany, and Criva - Mamaliga crossing points, where joint Moldovan-Ukrainian control operates. Currently Moldovan service staff at these checkpoints perform inspections on Ukrainian territory.

The new procedure will take effect on September 12 starting 08:00 and is initially set for 90 days. During this period, staff of the Moldovan Border Police and Customs Service will return to their country's territory and will conduct checks using the existing infrastructure on the Moldovan side.

The Moldovan Border Police emphasize that the crossing points themselves will not be closed. The movement of people and transport across the border should continue in the usual manner - only the workplace of Moldovan control authorities is changing.

The decision is preventive in nature. Chisinau explains it as due to increased risks for border service staff amid Russian air strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, including directly near the Moldovan border.

In recent weeks such attacks have repeatedly affected border operations. On the night of September 9, a Russian attack hit the Ukrainian crossing point Starokozache opposite the Moldovan point Tudora. According to Moldovan authorities, one drone attacked the crossing point, and two others fell nearby on Ukrainian territory. Infrastructure was damaged, and movement through Tudora - Starokozache was temporarily suspended.

Back in August, the Moldovan Ministry of Internal Affairs began strengthening the protection of border crossing points near areas of Ukraine targeted by drone attacks. The authorities ordered the equipment of protective spaces and shelters, development of evacuation procedures for staff and suspension of checkpoint operations in emergencies, and verification of protection equipment and medical kit supplies.

Thus, the current changes do not impose additional restrictions on travelers and carriers, but allow Moldovan border guards and customs officers not to be present on Ukrainian territory during periods of heightened threat.