Border & Security: Russian drones hit the Starokozachye Ukraine–Moldova border crossing, killing two and forcing closure, with analysts warning it could delay both military supplies and commercial exports. Transnistria & Fiscal Pressure: Parliament speaker Igor Grosu says protests tied to Chisinau’s new VAT/excise rules won’t change reintegration; from Sept 1 VAT/excise apply to items like tobacco, alcohol and precious metals. EU-aligned Business Rules: Moldova published new rules for recognizing foreign professional qualifications, including an automatic recognition path for regulated professions and more remote processing. Public Finance & Social Support: Despite the Convergence Fund not yet operating, over 218 million lei were allocated in H1 2026 toward reducing disparities in social services. Privatization Watch: Zarea Hotel in central Chisinau is set for privatization auction on Oct 20, with PM Vasile Tofan promising a transparent process and state budget revenue. State Capacity for Investment: Government moves to create “Moldova Project,” a single structure to speed up strategic infrastructure delivery. Diplomacy & Trade: Moldova’s PM heads to the UNGA in New York to push investment ties; Moldova also discusses a French business mission to Chisinau.