Personnel serving in the Russian Emergencies Ministry’s military rescue units may be granted the right to use physical force and firearms while carrying out official duties, including in the special military operation zone in Ukraine, Vedomosti reported.

The proposed changes would amend the law on civil defense as well as legislation governing state protection for judges and employees of law enforcement and regulatory agencies.

Under the bill, Emergencies Ministry personnel would be allowed to use physical force when other methods are insufficient to complete an assigned task. Firearms could be used to stop attempts to seize vehicles or military equipment, as well as to repel attacks that threaten the lives or health of servicemen.

Anatoly Vyborny, one of the authors of the initiative, said the new powers are also intended to give rescue units a legal mechanism for countering enemy drones. He said this capability is needed to protect personnel and equipment during evacuation and rescue operations in areas affected by armed conflicts and emergencies.

Before using a firearm, a serviceman would generally be required to warn of the intention to open fire and allow time for demands to be followed. The requirement would not apply when repelling an attack involving military equipment.

The bill would also restrict the use of lethal force against women, minors and people with disabilities. An exception would apply if they carry out an armed attack against servicemen or members of their families.