Russia Is Using Ukrainian Civilians in Frontline Cities as Targets to Train FPV Drone Pilots

Russian forces are systematically targeting Ukrainian civilians in frontline areas using FPV drones. These tactics serve not only to inflict damage but also to train drone operators before they are deployed in military zones. The approach reflects a troubling strategy that prioritizes the training of personnel at the expense of civilian safety.

According to Center for Countering Disinformation, to facilitate this training, Russian forces utilize the occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) as a base for operations, with Nikopol serving as a critical location due to its proximity to the power plant. The city has recently witnessed drone attacks involving incendiary devices targeting residential areas. Such tactics not only jeopardize lives but also create chaos and fear among the local population.

In Nikopol, reports indicate that drones are being used to target emergency responders as they arrive at the scene of previous attacks. The head of the Nikopol District, Yevhen Yevtushenko, has highlighted the dangers posed by these “flying Molotov cocktails.” These drones carry incendiary mixtures designed to start fires and cause destruction.

Furthermore, Russian forces are not limited to Nikopol; they have expanded their drone attacks to other regions, such as Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. In Zaporizhzhia, there have been instances of FPV drones striking civilian vehicles while residents are inside. The use of such drones is particularly insidious, as air raid alerts are often not activated, making it difficult for civilians to prepare for attacks.

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In the Kherson region, similar tactics have been observed. Drone operators target civilian infrastructure, creating significant threats to local populations. For example, in the Zernova community, drones have been reported to drop high-temperature charges, exacerbating the risks to civilian safety.

The systematic use of FPV drones by Russian forces in attacks against civilians violates the Geneva Conventions and constitutes a war crime.