Zelensky Implements New Sanctions Against Russian Drone Developers Using Artificial Intelligence
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed decree No.
599/2025, which came into effect following the approval of the National Security and Defense Council’s decision from August 16.
This legislative act introduces a comprehensive package of sanctions targeting key Russian companies and foreign suppliers engaged in the development and manufacturing of drones powered by artificial intelligence.
Among the sanctioned entities are prominent firms such as ‘Protmatik’ and ‘Smart Birds,’ specializing in combat UAV production.
The first company manufactures the ‘Micro 10’ — a compact FPV kamikaze drone equipped with an electronic autopilot system and automatic target capture capabilities, enabling precise pinpoint strikes.
The second, ‘Smart Birds,’ produces the ‘Soroka’ UAV, capable of carrying a payload of up to 3.5 kilograms and fitted with an optical targeting system, allowing it to bypass radio-electronic warfare zones and anti-drone defenses.
The sanctions also cover Chinese companies such as Dongguan Standard Trading Co., Zhejiang Lianxing Machinery Co., Guangzhou Benquan Import & Export, Shenzhen Sky Bow Navigation Technology, Harbin Bin-Au Technology Development, and Topscom Precision Industry.
These firms supply components like motors, cameras, microchips, transistors, resistors, and navigation modules essential for Russian drones like the ‘Shahids’ and other combat UAVs.
An important player in AI development for UAVs is the Russian Neural Lab, which develops and trains AI models that enable drones to navigate autonomously, recognize targets, track them, and analyze sensor data.
These models necessitate significant computational resources provided by the NeuroLab nonprofit organization.
Additionally, the Russian UAV and technology center (RBTC) was established to promote innovations in drone technology.
These sanctions aim to strategically hinder Russia’s ability to develop advanced combat drones equipped with AI elements capable of causing substantial battlefield damage, thereby strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and applying increased pressure on Russia’s military-industrial complex.