August M
Russian forces have reportedly used drones to drop propaganda leaflets and counterfeit cash over the Ukrainian city of Sumy in what officials describe as a psychological warfare campaign.
Kyiv Post reported that Ukrainian authorities warned residents not to touch the materials, fearing they could contain hidden explosives or tracking devices.
Drones spread leaflets
According to Ukrainian outlet Censor.NET, unmanned aerial vehicles released the materials over Sumy earlier this week.
The leaflets reportedly promoted themes of “brotherhood” and “shared roots” between Russians and Ukrainians ahead of Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9.
One message read: “Our grandfathers were brothers in the trenches.”
Fake cash dropped
Kyiv Post reported that drones also released imitation banknotes designed to attract civilians and encourage them to pick up the materials.
Ukrainian military and police officials urged residents to avoid approaching any objects dropped from drones.
Authorities warned the items could potentially conceal explosive devices or other hazards.
Officials issue warning
“It is an attempt at provocation. Be careful,” Sumy Regional Military Administration head Oleh Hrihorov wrote on Facebook, according to the report.
He urged civilians to immediately report suspicious items to authorities instead of handling them themselves.
Kyiv Post noted that similar incidents have previously been recorded in other Ukrainian regions.
Psychological tactics evolve
In April, officials in Chernihiv region reported drones dispersing leaflets disguised as banknotes containing QR codes.
The latest incident highlights how Russia is increasingly combining drone technology with propaganda and intimidation tactics aimed at destabilising civilian populations.
Sumy, located near the Russian border, has faced repeated missile and drone attacks since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, with residential areas and infrastructure frequently targeted.
Sources: Kyiv Post, Censor.NET, Facebook statement by Oleh Hrihorov.
