Zelenskyy gives forecast on fully autonomous AI drone attacks

The head of state emphasized that currently tens of thousands of people "who know how to professionally kill using drones." Such drones are harder to stop than any weapon – a gun, knife, or bomb. This is a direct result of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

"It used to be that only the strongest countries could use drones – because they were expensive and complex. Now, even simple drones can fly thousands of kilometers. War tech doesn’t care about geography anymore – it’s now reshaping it," Zelenskyy stated.

He noted that last week, North Korea announced the testing of a tactical strike drone. This shows that even countries with limited resources can develop weapons that pose a threat to their neighbors. It is possible that all types of drones could eventually become accessible even to terrorists or cartels.

"The world moves too slowly to protect itself. And weapons move fast. Now, companies are already working on drones that can shoot down other drones. And it’s only a matter of time – not much – before drones are fighting drones, attacking critical infrastructure, and targeting people – all by themselves, fully autonomous, and no human involved – except the few who control AI systems," the President added.

AI drones

Last year, it became known that Ukraine is developing artificial intelligence systems to control drones.

This will, in particular, help drones overcome the effects of electronic warfare systems.