"Don't draw attention to yourself, don't show off"

The Ukrainian drone unit has been operating on an unspecified location since May 15th last year. The unit's activities have included targeting Russian military installations and oil refining facilities, causing significant challenges for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who had previously believed he could capture Kyiv within days. In response, Ukrainian soldiers must remain largely hidden to avoid detection.

A member of the Ukrainian drone unit, whose name has been changed for privacy, has participated in attacks since last year. However, his friends and even his parents are unaware of his involvement due to strict rules within his unit. He stated that they should not draw attention to themselves or be seen, emphasizing that they will never be able to talk about their actions, even after the war ends. He was formerly a land forces soldier and now serves in the so-called Unit 1 of the Ukrainian drone unit. His unit has conducted major attacks on Russia, including in June when they targeted an oil refinery in Moscow, which sent thick black smoke over the Russian capital, and during a significant international conference in St. Petersburg.

Ukrainian authorities claim these attacks are legitimate and carried out in self-defense following Russia’s nighttime attacks on Ukrainian cities. These attacks target fuel supply depots and oil refineries aimed at disrupting Russian energy supplies. The soldier mentioned that they are a crucial target for the enemy and emphasized the need for secrecy. Names and ages of those in the unit are kept confidential, and it is not allowed to photograph them or take pictures unless their faces are obscured. Journalists from AFP had to follow strict security protocols this year to gain rare access to one of the units used for long-range attacks.

A soldier from Unit 1, known as Voron, which means "crow" in Ukrainian, explained that they understand how much is at stake for both their loved ones and themselves, hence the decision to stay hidden as much as possible. He once served in a unit tasked with finding and engaging long-range Russian drone units. Before Russia invaded Ukraine, he worked as a journalist and trainer in combat sports. He is married and has a child, and his wife believes he is doing important work but does not ask questions.

On social media, Voron posts updates from his former unit and shares images marked with its insignia, suggesting he is still active. He said that all his relatives and friends believe he is still part of the special unit. A representative from the Ukrainian intelligence service, GUR, told AFP that they could potentially be identified as ordinary people, adding that people imagine them as some kind of special forces in camouflage uniforms, but in reality, they walk around in civilian clothes and casual attire. When they are in public, they never mention ongoing operations and even avoid using terms like "flight" or "wings." Everything is paid for in cash, and they are advised to use different banks for expenses. They are also discouraged from attending nightclubs near gas stations.

In another development, authorities in Ukraine are concerned that several individuals might be trapped inside the nine-story building that collapsed due to Russian attacks on Kyiv overnight. At least five people were killed and 34 injured in large-scale air raids and drone strikes by Russian forces yesterday evening and throughout the night. The city mayor, Vitali Klitschko, announced this information via a post on Telegram last night. Large fires broke out in buildings where the attacks occurred, including multi-family homes, hotels, and medical facilities. Many people sought shelter in underground shelters beneath the city. Klitschko urged residents to stay in safe shelters until the attacks subside. President Volodymyr Zelensky was in Dublin, Ireland, yesterday and returned to his home country upon receiving news of the overwhelming Russian attacks. During a press briefing, he stated that Russia had prepared significant attacks for some time. Ukrainians have also increased long-range drone attacks on Russia recently, targeting energy infrastructure and military personnel.