A powerful car bomb exploded beneath the Mercedes of Vladimir Tkachuk, founder of Russian drone company Uraldronzavod, in Ekaterinburg. The attack left Tkachuk in a critical condition, while his bodyguard was killed. Russian state media reported that Tkachuk is currently in intensive care, with doctors working urgently to save his life.
Uraldronzavod's role in the Ukraine war
Uraldronzavod emerged as a key private company involved in Russia’s war in Ukraine, producing drones for the Russian military. One of its most notable creations is the Upyr (Ghoul) drone, a cost-effective, first-person-view (FPV) kamikaze model. Made using 3D printing technology, the drones are manufactured at the company’s facility in Ekaterinburg and have been widely used in combat operations in Ukraine. In 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the factory, where Tkachuk personally conducted a tour for him.
Tkachuk's pro-war activities
Beyond his work with Uraldronzavod, Tkachuk plays an active role in promoting Russia’s war efforts. He founded the popular pro-war Telegram channel Obsessed with War, which boasts over 500,000 followers. The platform has been used to raise money and organize the purchase of military supplies for Russian troops. Both Tkachuk and Uraldronzavod have faced Western sanctions for their contribution to Russia’s war machine.
The car bomb attack on Tkachuk follows a recent explosion at a high-end restaurant in central Moscow. The blast killed five individuals, including Daniil Peredrya, the son-in-law of Colonel General Aleksandr Chayko, head of Russia’s aerospace forces. Although Russian authorities have not named the target of that attack, independent media and pro-Kremlin bloggers believe it was meant for Chayko, who was reportedly at the venue.
Ukraine’s intelligence services have long been suspected of orchestrating attacks on Russian officials and military leaders involved in the war. The assault on Tkachuk underscores Ukraine’s capability to carry out covert operations deep inside Russia, raising questions about the effectiveness of Russia’s internal security. With this latest event, the country may face greater pressure to improve its ability to protect high-profile figures and prevent such attacks.
Russia is likely to accuse Ukraine of carrying out the bombing, particularly following the previous Moscow attack. However, no evidence has been presented to confirm the link. The incident highlights the growing level of violence against Russian war figures and the potential for further escalation in what is now an increasingly dangerous conflict on multiple fronts.