Russia amends weapons law to arm private security against drone threats
Updated
Updated · Kyiv Post · May 6
Russia amends weapons law to arm private security against drone threats
4 articles · Updated · Kyiv Post · May 6
The change, signed by Vladimir Putin in late March 2026, lets guards protecting energy and other critical infrastructure use combat rifles and ammunition.
It comes as Moscow adds about 43 new air-defence towers in 2025 and after a Ukrainian drone hit a residential high-rise about 6km from the Kremlin.
Ahead of the 9 May Victory Day parade, authorities have curbed mobile internet and may omit heavy military equipment, while analysts warn defences are being concentrated around the capital.
Is Moscow’s digital blackout a defense against Ukrainian drones or a shield against an internal coup?
With Moscow heavily fortified, are Russia's front lines now dangerously exposed to attack?
As drones render million-dollar missiles obsolete, how is Russia adapting to this new era of low-cost warfare?
Over 1,000 Drone Strikes Prompt Russia to Arm Private Guards with Military-Grade Firearms
Overview
In response to over 1,000 drone attacks on critical infrastructure since 2024 and a massive drone offensive in winter 2025-2026, President Putin signed a law in March 2026 allowing private security firms guarding vital energy and state facilities to temporarily use military-grade firearms under strict National Guard control. This law aims to strengthen defenses amid a drone-driven conflict where Ukraine has improved its air defenses and launched strikes targeting Russian drone production. While Russia justifies this militarization as necessary, the EU warns of risks in blurring civilian and military roles. The evolving drone warfare, marked by rapid technological advances and ethical concerns, is reshaping security strategies worldwide.