Russian training for drone evasion sparks viral dismay amid Ukraine conflict

Russia is, for many, a state of mind, as evidenced by videos that reveal the stark reality within the country. One video, in particular, gaining traction on social media, displays the methodological approach of Russian soldiers preparing for combat in Ukraine, specifically their strategies for evading drone attacks.

In a widely shared video, Russian soldiers are depicted scrambling to avoid a drone that captures their frantic attempts at evasion. As the drone nears, their panic escalates, leading to jumps, dives, and attempts at concealment.

Observers of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine can easily discern that these exercises offer little real protection against an actual drone attack. Drones, known for their precision, lethality, and cost-effectiveness, typically effectively reach and obliterate their targets.

Even without resulting in fatalities, drones pose a severe risk of injury. The explosive radius of a kamikaze drone is such that proximity alone can ensure complete annihilation, with shrapnel posing an additional hazard to personnel, vehicles, and equipment.

While the footage may invoke pity for the seemingly rudimentary capabilities of the Russian military, it's essential to recognize their significant advantages over the Ukrainian forces, underscored by recent territorial expansions. Reports, including those from Ukrainian intelligence and military sources, indicate Russia's preparation for a substantial offensive aiming to seize the Donetsk region, with the current focus on the city of Chasiv Yar.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) notes that capturing this city could strategically position Russian forces for further assaults on Kramatorsk and Kostiantynivka, two strongly fortified urban areas. The coming weeks are critical as Ukrainians brace for developments that could determine the fate of the Donetsk region.