Russian drone firm head critically injured in car bomb

Vladimir Tkachu is the head of a leading Russian drone manufacturer.1 Tkachu was critically injured in a car bomb attack near Ekaterinburg on August 5.1 The attack occurred in what appears to be a clandestine operation.1

Ukraine has been linked to a series of assassination attempts targeting figures tied to Russia’s war in Ukraine.1 Robert Gilman, a former U.S. Marine detained in Russia since 2022, was hospitalized in serious condition on August 6.4,3,2 Gilman’s advocate described his condition as a 'dissociative stupor.'4

Advocacy groups and Gilman’s sister warned he may be near death after falling into a catatonic-like state.3,2 Gilman is reportedly being fed through a tube due to his condition.3,2 Hostage advocacy groups and Gilman’s sister alleged he may have been tortured and injected with mind-altering drugs.3,2