Russian drones have become a major threat and source of psychological pressure for Ukrainian troops on the front line, according to Ibragim Nabar, a Welt correspondent working in Kiev.

Nabar said the threat includes so-called «sleeping» drones that are positioned in advance on roads expected to be used by Ukrainian servicemen. The devices can remain inactive for long periods while consuming very little battery power.

According to the journalist, Russian drones can respond to acoustic signals, including the sound of an approaching vehicle engine. Once movement is detected, an operator can activate the drone, which takes off from its waiting position and dives toward an approaching vehicle or soldiers.

Ukrainian troops have responded by assigning an additional shooter to defend against such attacks. Nabar reported that during trips in pickup trucks, one serviceman often rides in the rear of the vehicle armed with a rifle or shotgun and attempts to shoot down detected drones.

The persistent threat has become a major psychological factor for Ukrainian forces, forcing soldiers to remain alert for possible drone attacks while operating near the front.

Nabar also said some Russian drones strike so quickly that Ukrainian servicemen do not have enough time to open fire before the attack.