Ukraine: The Latest

Drug gangs hone drone skills in Ukraine's foreign legion as US warns Russia of “consequences” on eve of latest weapons meeting

9 snips
Oct 15, 2025
Colin Freeman, a foreign reporter and author, sheds light on an alarming trend: Mexican and Colombian drug cartels are infiltrating the Ukrainian military to refine their drone warfare skills. He discusses how operatives train in kamikaze tactics, complicating volunteer vetting due to identity fraud. The conversation also delves into the implications of these techniques being used back in Latin America, highlighting the concerning potential of combat-trained individuals returning to criminal life. Freeman's insights reveal a unique intersection of global conflicts and criminal enterprises.
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INSIGHT

Allies Mobilise Funding And Pressure

  • NATO defence ministers met to push the PEARL mechanism and mobilise allied funding for Ukraine's weapons needs.
  • Matthew Whittaker warned of potential "consequences" for Russia if it resists a peace deal, signalling tougher options ahead.
ADVICE

Send Counter-Drone Teams To Neighbouring States

  • Deploy counter-drone experts to neighbouring states at risk to limit drone proliferation and attacks.
  • Britain will send military and civilian teams to Moldova to scope training and equipment needs this month.
INSIGHT

Russian Armour Lacks Combined-Arms Edge

  • Russia has reverted to using more armour in Donbass but lacks combined-arms proficiency and has seen limited gains.
  • Poor weather and depleted trained units make large mechanised assaults unlikely to change the front decisively.
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