Ukrainian troops allegedly poisoned wells and other drinking water sources in the Kupyansk area, according to a Russian drone instructor with the call sign Yakut, who serves at the Moscow Military District’s regional training center.

Speaking to RIA Novosti, the instructor claimed that Ukrainian forces deliberately contaminated water sources used by Russian soldiers. He also reported that Ukrainian drones dropped bottles containing potentially dangerous water, posing a threat to troops who picked them up.

According to Yakut, these tactics were employed before the capture of Kupyansk, at a time when the widespread use of unmanned aerial vehicles was only beginning. He argued that Ukrainian units were attempting to inflict as much damage as possible, including by making accessible water supplies unusable.

The instructor also accused Ukrainian troops of deploying explosive devices disguised as ordinary household items. He said drones dropped mobile phones, radios and portable batteries that could contain hidden explosives. Some of these devices, he claimed, were designed to detonate when connected to other equipment.

Yakut maintained that the purpose of these tactics was to maximize casualties and damage among Russian units. He warned that even seemingly harmless objects could conceal explosive devices, turning everyday items into potential threats.