**Russia’s Drone Warfare Escalates: Using Telegram Bots to Control Attack Drones**
Russia has been using a new method to control its attack drones, making them more resistant to Ukrainian defenses. According to the Economist, Russia is now using Telegram messaging app bots to control its Shahed-type attack drones. This allows for real-time flight data and footage feed for human operators.
This revelation was made possible by a note hidden inside one of the Russian drones, left behind by what Ukrainian engineers believe might be a sympathetic Russian engineer. The use of Telegram bots presents a challenge to Ukrainian defenses as it makes Russian drones more difficult to intercept using GPS jamming.
**Russia’s Drone Production Ramps Up**
Russia has been increasing its drone production in recent months to launch larger-scale attacks against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. On May 26, Russia launched the most extensive drone attack of the full-scale war, involving 355 Shahed-type attack drones and decoys. This new control method is believed to be part of Russia’s efforts to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses.
**Implications for Ukraine**
The use of Telegram bots by Russian forces poses a significant challenge to Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. Ukrainian aviation expert Kostiantyn Kryvolap expressed concerns that Moscow’s production capabilities will increase significantly, making it harder for Ukraine to defend itself against the swarm attacks.
Ukraine’s sky shield is already stretched thin, with Western air defense supplies running low. The country has reportedly run out of ammunition for its SAMP/T air defense batteries and Crotale short-range anti-aircraft systems have not received new missiles in over a year and a half.
**International Response**
The international community is still grappling with how to effectively counter Russia’s drone warfare strategy. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the U.S. is working with NATO partners to locate additional Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine, which are key in intercepting Russian ballistic missiles.
However, despite Ukraine’s appeals for assistance, the Trump administration has yet to approve any new military aid packages. This lack of support has left Ukraine vulnerable to Russia’s drone attacks and other forms of aggression.
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