Russian troops use drones as shepherds for infantry, effectively sending soldiers on one-way missions, according to Maksym Bakulin, press officer of the Ukrainian 14th National Guard Brigade “Chervona Kalyna", Suspilne reports. 

On the Pokrovske axis, 46 out of 200 assaults were recorded in a single day. Despite drone losses, the attacks continue.  

Forced discipline and drone control

Bakulin notes that "without drone support, they can’t do anything, because the quality of their infantry is currently quite low.”

Soldiers receive “packages from drones” to check whether they reach them and in what condition. Intercepted radio exchanges reveal lines like, “I’m wounded. Don’t tell me, go forward!” highlighting the coercive use of manpower.

Drones as observers and control tools

For Russian assault units, UAVs serve both support and surveillance roles.

“A soldier who says he’s wounded is still sent forward. Words are not trusted,” adds Bakulin, underscoring the methods of control and distrust within their ranks.

Weather complicates Russian operations

Strong winds and fog in the brigade’s area of responsibility significantly hinder drones’ ability to stay airborne, reducing the effectiveness of Russian attacks, though the tactic of drones as taskmasters remains a key strategy.