{
  "id": 8713449,
  "title": "No tanks, lone soldiers — Ukraine details new Russian assault tactics",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/20/no-tanks-lone-soldiers-ukraine-details-new-russian-assault-tactics",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-20T15:04:06.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Kyiv Independent",
    "slug": "kyiv-independent",
    "url": "https://kyivindependent.com/no-tanks-lone-soldiers-ukraine-details-new-russian-assault-tactics/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ukrainian officials have detailed the evolving tactics of Russian forces in Ukraine, reporting a shift towards smaller, more individualized attacks. According to Viktor Tregubov, spokesperson for the Joint Forces Task Force, Russian troops are now attacking in groups of just a few soldiers or even solo operatives to navigate the perilous \"kill zone\" that stretches up to 20 kilometers. Once past this hazardous area, these lone soldiers hide in caves and await the arrival of their compatriots to continue their assault. This strategy is a response to the increased threat from drones, which have rendered heavy equipment like tanks scarce on the battlefield. The prevalence of drones has made it difficult for both sides to conceal their troop movements, leading to a decrease in the use of tanks and other heavy machinery for assaults. Tregubov noted that this tactic is largely being employed by Russia, except in cases where they can provide substantial drone support for tank operations, or when weather conditions hinder Ukrainian drone activities, such as during rain or fog.",
  "summary": "The prevalence of drones from both sides has significantly changed assault tactics, making heavy equipment such as tanks a rare sight on the battlefield.",
  "key_points": [
    "Russian forces use smaller, individualized attacks in Ukraine.",
    "Groups consist of just a few soldiers or solo operatives.",
    "Strategy responds to increased drone threat and limited tanks."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "New Voice of Ukraine",
        "title": "Ukraine's National Guard drone destroys Russian Osa missile system estimated at $10 million",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/20/ukraines-national-guard-drone-destroys-russian-osa-missile-system",
        "published": "2026-09-20T13:58:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}