Boombox Producer Shoots Down Russian Drone with a Machine Gun

Oleksii Sohomonov’s Role in Ukraine’s Defense

According to Главком: On May 13, Oleksii Sohomonov, the producer of the popular Ukrainian band Boombox and a current member of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), successfully shot down a Russian drone during a large-scale attack. The drone’s destruction was officially confirmed by military command, and Sohomonov received a commendation from both his commander and headquarters. This incident highlights the direct involvement of Ukrainian cultural figures on the front lines.

Sohomonov serves in the Mobile Fire Group "Verba" and joined the AFU at the start of the full-scale invasion. During the engagement, he fired approximately 12 to 14 rounds from a Browning machine gun, striking the drone. He described the event as follows:

'I took down a Shahed today. It happened that I was alone at the position. I fired 12 or 14 shots from the Browning and hit it from the arc into the tail. There’s official confirmation and thanks from the commander and headquarters.' Oleksii Sohomonov

Sohomonov emphasized that this success would not have been possible without his comrades, stating:

'I thank my brothers-in-arms for the respect; without you, this wouldn’t have happened. I serve the people of Ukraine.' Oleksii Sohomonov

Andriy Khlyvnyuk’s Charity Work

Additionally, Boombox frontman Andriy Khlyvnyuk, who also serves in the AFU, completed a charity tour across five countries, organizing 17 concerts. The tour raised over 5 million hryvnias to purchase pickup trucks and drones for the Ukrainian military.

This case demonstrates not only the active participation of musicians in defending the country but also their ability to boost morale and unite society around a common goal. Oleksii Sohomonov’s military service and his aerial achievement underscore the importance of volunteerism and support provided by Ukrainian artists aiding the AFU during wartime. Actions like Andriy Khlyvnyuk’s performances serve not only to raise funds but also to increase awareness of the army’s needs and the critical importance of unity among the population.