Drones will dominate 15-20 km either side of the frontline this summer, paralyzing infantry movements – Ukrainian Major

The officer said this in his report on successful drone strikes against Russian targets in April 2025, released on May 3.

"Unmanned technologies are now so dominant on both sides that the dead or kill zone I predicted will soon, this summer, stretch 15 to 20 kilometers in both directions. That will make it nearly impossible to move troops or equipment," he said.

"Everything will be locked down by drones. We need to face this, grit our teeth, shut our mouths, and keep chewing through the enemy — using our pilots, supplies, and tactics smartly. With full drone control of the air, there won’t be any infantry left," Brovdi added.

At the same time, drone units must be fully backed by the state and by society.

"We know what to do. The only question is whether everyone understands how serious the threat is," Madyar said.

Who is Robert Brovdi

Robert Brovdi, a native of Uzhhorod, is a businessman, entrepreneur, former grain trader, renowned art collector, and philanthropist. 

A few years ago, he promoted the "Silver Easel" project in Transcarpathia, a painting competition and plein air event for young artists from across the country. 

Brovdi joined the war as a Territorial Defense fighter—he enlisted in the territorial defense before Russia's invasion in February and became a platoon commander. He is most widely known as the founder and commander of the "Birds of the Madyar" unit, which is now the 414th Separate Assault Drone Aviation Systems Regiment (414th OPUBAS) of the Ukrainian Marine Corps.

• Ukrainian drones struck and destroyed over 160,000 Russian targets during March and April.