Ukraine has reportedly employed 28 ground robots in a significant assault on Russian positions near Lyman in the Donetsk region, an event described as the largest visually recorded clash involving unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) in the war. The Ukrainian 3rd Army Corps reportedly deployed a mix of units armed with grenade launchers and anti-tank weapons, alongside eight kamikaze UGVs.
Russia claimed to have repelled the advance, but the incident has raised concerns about Ukraine's evolving combat tactics. Russian war channels suggested this represents a "new level" in drone warfare, with pro-war sources noting it was the first attempt to use ground robots similarly to infantry assault groups. However, Russian sources also indicated the "metal armada" lacked aerial cover and was vulnerable to strike drones once its advance was detected. Footage reportedly showed Russian forces targeting the Ukrainian robots.
While the attack was repelled, analysts suggest that refining such tactics could allow Ukrainian forces to advance on the frontline while minimizing human casualties. This development coincides with recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil facilities, including the Afipsky Oil Refinery, a key supplier to Russia's war effort.
Separately, former U.S. President Donald Trump has predicted an imminent peace deal for Ukraine involving "all of Europe." His comments followed talks with Russian and Ukrainian representatives, including Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, who has been involved in discussions regarding security guarantees for Kyiv and a new European security framework. A U.S. delegation is slated to mediate talks between Russia and Ukraine in Abu Dhabi.