KYIV: Encrypted communications, wives and children in the dark, and spending only in cash — the Ukrainian soldiers behind brazen long-range drone strikes on Russia live their lives almost completely in the shadows.
The retaliatory attacks on Russian military sites and oil refineries they carry out have embarrassed President Vladimir Putin, who four years ago thought he could capture Kyiv in a matter of days.
The price they pay, though, is almost complete secrecy.
Denys, whose name has been changed, has been taking part in the strikes since 2025.
But his friends and even parents have no idea, thanks to the ultra-strict rules in his unit.
