Russian Banks Empowered to Combat Ukrainian Drone Threats

In a move reflecting the intensifying conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Russian lawmakers have approved a contentious bill permitting trained bank employees to shoot down Ukrainian drones. The legislation, reported by TASS, passed its final reading in the State Duma, requiring banks to install electronic jamming systems to counter rising aerial threats.

The bill responds to Ukraine's increased drone strikes targeting Russian infrastructures, including strategic energy sites around Moscow. Financial institutions, particularly state-backed entities like Sberbank, are tasked with furnishing their premises with anti-drone equipment and ensuring selected staff can utilize jamming and interception technologies.

Despite clearing the lower house, the bill awaits further approval from the Federation Council and President Vladimir Putin. However, it has stirred concerns about training adequacy and operational readiness of bank personnel. Anatoly Aksakov, a financial committee chairman, emphasized the dual approach of jamming and interception to safeguard critical facilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)