Ukrainian Civilians Allowed to Shoot Down Russian Drones

In a new step to bolster Ukraine's air defense, the government has approved a program that allows trained civilians to help detect and shoot down Russian drones.

The decision, announced by government representative Taras Melnychuk, follows a Cabinet of Ministers resolution and marks the start of an experimental initiative led by the Ministry of Defense.

Under this temporary project, members of volunteer and paramilitary groups affiliated with the Territorial Defense Forces will be permitted to engage enemy aerial targets using drones, aircraft, personal weapons, and their own vehicles. The program requires participants to possess appropriate flying or combat skills, including UAV operator certification.

The goal is to respond to the rising threat of Russian drone strikes, which have increased in frequency during nightly attacks on Ukrainian cities. “This is a necessary and timely step,” said Melnychuk, “as our cities face relentless assaults from enemy drones.”

The effort will be carried out during the period of martial law, but not for more than two years. The initiative will be organized under the Territorial Defense Forces, while the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine will hold operational control. Training will be coordinated by national resistance centers to ensure readiness and safety.

Volunteers participating in the air defense initiative may also receive equipment, weapons, and ammunition from the Armed Forces. Furthermore, they will be eligible for monthly rewards of up to UAH 100,000 from local budgets, based on the level of participation.

This new measure complements existing mobile air defense groups, which were formed at the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. These units typically operate from off-road vehicles fitted with heavy machine guns, anti-aircraft weapons, or man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS), enabling rapid response to drone incursions.

As Ukraine seeks to expand its defense capabilities, this civilian engagement strategy reflects a broader reliance on local knowledge, agility, and resourcefulness to counter aerial threats.