Comments from the Commander of Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces
According to Robert Brovdi (also known as Madiar), who leads Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces, launching an attack on Moscow would be ill-advised due to the city's heavy air defenses. He argues that Kyiv is unlikely to waste drones on a target located deep inside the Russian capital, instead emphasizing that strikes against energy infrastructure and military assets on the periphery deliver far greater strategic value. This assessment comes as Russia prepares for its May 9 Victory Day parade, an event that will notably exclude armored vehicles and feature restricted access for foreign journalists.
'Should we teach them to waste drones on the Great Wall? If you hit the energy sector or military targets, that’s a much better strike—out on the periphery.' Robert Brovdi
The Red Square parade will proceed with only foot columns of military personnel, without any armored vehicles on display.
Journalist Accreditation Controversy
On May 8, the Kremlin revoked accreditation for foreign journalists, sparking backlash within media circles. Coverage of the parade was permitted exclusively for Russian media representatives. The Kremlin cited the current situation as the reason for this change in media policy. The guest list for the parade includes representatives from unrecognized entities and leaders of countries with dubious international standing, a detail that has drawn significant attention from the global community.
Brovdi’s remarks highlight Ukraine’s tactical approach to the conflict with Russia, focusing on more vulnerable targets to conserve resources. Meanwhile, the restricted access for foreign journalists at the May 9 parade underscores the Kremlin’s efforts to control the narrative and shape how events in Russia are perceived internationally. Together, these developments signal a shift in rhetoric and strategy from both sides as the war continues.
As the Kremlin tightens its grip on media coverage, the recent decision to revoke foreign journalists' accreditation for the May 9 parade highlights the ongoing efforts to control the narrative surrounding the conflict. This move aligns with Brovdi's strategy of focusing on more vulnerable targets, further emphasizing the tactical shifts in Ukraine's approach amidst heightened tensions.