Ukraine’s push to cripple Russia in Crimea is just getting started, drone chief tells AP

In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Maj. Robert "Magyar" Brovdi, a prominent commander among Ukraine's new generation of soldiers, revealed that his country's drone war in Crimea is merely the beginning of a larger campaign. The primary objective, according to Brovdi, is to render Crimea unusable as a staging ground for Russian forces, a goal that could be achieved more quickly if Western allies could provide faster financial support.

Brovdi explained that Ukraine's forces have already struck seven times more military targets in Crimea than initially anticipated, targeting strategic sites like rail bridges, oil depots, and power infrastructure. Despite this progress, Ukraine's drone capabilities are currently operating at only 14% of their full potential, according to Brovdi. He attributes this shortfall to a lack of timely financing from Western allies, despite the pledges of support.

Brovdi's background as a volunteer in Ukraine's territorial defense and his experience running an international grain trading business have equipped him with a strong understanding of the importance of numbers in warfare. He emphasized that while Ukraine's manufacturers can produce the necessary drones, the issue lies in the slow allocation of funds by Western partners.

The major's command post, an unconventional space decorated with Ukrainian art, serves as a stark contrast to the high-tech nature of his work. However, Brovdi remains undeterred, expressing his belief in the power of numbers and the potential for Ukraine's drone forces to significantly impact the conflict in Crimea.