The use and trade of weapons have significantly impacted global politics and security in 2026. The Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine identifies over 5,800 foreign components in Russian weapons, raising questions about international supply chains. With large quantities of TNT seized in Ukraine, law enforcement remains vigilant in curbing illegal arms trade. Following US President Trump's statements about missile shortages, the US ensures continued weapon support to Ukraine through NATO mechanisms. Meanwhile, innovative defense solutions like the Sting interceptor drones have successfully downed over 1,000 Russian UAVs, showcasing advancements in air defense technology. These developments underscore the ongoing complexities and strategic shifts in global arms markets and military partnerships during a volatile period.
How are foreign components identified in Russian weapons?
Ukrainian intelligence and defense experts conduct thorough investigations to trace the origin of components in Russian weapons, using forensic analysis and intelligence gathering to identify foreign parts, including actions by the Main Intelligence Directorate.
What is the significance of the US supplying weapons to Ukraine?
The US supplies weapons to Ukraine under NATO programs to bolster Kyiv's defense capabilities against ongoing threats and aggression, ensuring regional stability and demonstrating allied support through mechanisms like the PURL program.
What technologies are used by Ukraine to counter Russian drones?
Ukraine employs advanced technologies like the Hornet Vision Ctrl system to remotely control Sting interceptors, efficiently targeting and neutralizing Russian drones, enhancing national defense and airspace security.
How are illegal arms trading channels being dismantled in Ukraine?
Ukrainian law enforcement agencies, including the SSU and the State Bureau of Investigation, actively dismantle illegal arms trading channels by coordinating nationwide operations, resulting in the seizure of explosives, weaponry, and the arrest of key operatives.
What impact do arms exhibitions have during wartime?
Arms exhibitions during wartime can pose security risks, potentially escalating tensions and complicating diplomatic efforts. As emphasized by Ukrainian leadership, such events must be avoided to prioritize safety and focus on strategic defense measures.
How do countries respond to unauthorized weapon components in foreign arms?
Countries investigate reports of unauthorized components in foreign arms, seeking diplomatic and legal channels to address potential breaches of trade agreements, with efforts involving evidence sharing and calls for accountability from implicated nations.
What role do legislative changes play in regulating firearms usage in Ukraine?
Ukraine's government continually adapts firearms regulations to address security challenges, striving for comprehensive legal frameworks that balance civilian rights with national safety, often driven by emerging threats and current conflict conditions.
Photo news weapons
Grenade launchers for $11,000: Serviceman who traded weapons detained in Kharkiv – SBI. PHOTOS A serviceman from one of the military units stationed in the Kharkiv region has been detained for illegally trading in weapons. 2 241 8 Previously in trend: Illegal arms trafficking
Clandestine weapons arsenal discovered at military unit in Kyiv region as commander exposed in payment scheme – SBI. VIDEO&PHOTOS The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), with operational support from the Security Service of Ukraine, discovered a large arsenal of weapons, ammunition, and explosives while investigating abuses by the commander of a military unit stationed in the Kyiv region as part of the "Justice for... 8 531 17 Previously in trend: Smuggling of weapons
DIU showed diplomats foreign components in Russian weapons: over 5,800 parts have been identified. PHOTOS Experts from the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence have shown Ukrainian diplomats foreign-made components used in Russian weaponry. 4 178 14 Previously in trend: sanctions circumvention
172 kilograms of TNT and components for artillery ammunition: Explosives dealer detained. PHOTOS Police in the Kharkiv region have detained an explosives dealer and seized 172 kilograms of TNT and fuzes. 2 071 8 Previously in trend: Smuggling of weapons
SSU has dismantled seven channels for illegal sale of weapons: one tonne of explosives seized. PHOTOS The SSU, the State Bureau of Investigation and the National Police have dismantled seven illegal arms trafficking channels. Law enforcement officers seized over a tonne of explosives, drones, grenade launchers and automatic weapons, and arrested the organisers. 1 187 15 Previously in trend: Illegal possession of weapons
Selling weapons by lorries: Three military personnel attempted to steal over tonne of explosives, – SBI. PHOTOS Three military personnel have been notified that they are under suspicion of attempting to sell a large arsenal of weapons and explosives. 3 769 12 Previously in trend: Illegal arms trafficking
Threatened police officers with automatic weapon: 26-year-old man detained in Khmelnytskyi region. PHOTO In the Khmelnytskyi region, law enforcement officers detained a 26-year-old man who had threatened police officers with an automatic weapon. A special operation, codenamed ‘Grim’, was launched. 2 616 16 Previously in trend: Threats against law enforcement officers
Ukrainian arms manufacturers presented their latest developments for 7th Airborne Corps. PHOTOS Ukrainian defence companies presented their technological solutions to personnel from the 7th Rapid Reaction Corps of the Airborne Forces. The use of innovation in combat conditions was the central theme of the "MilTech Innovations" event, organised by the 7th Airborne Corps and the Council of... 2 274 2
National Police discovered 20 caches and seized over 1,000 items of weapons and ammunition. VIDEO&PHOTOS Ukrainian law enforcement agencies have carried out a large-scale operation across various regions of the country, uncovering dozens of weapons caches and seizing a significant arsenal from illegal circulation. Following the searches, charges have already been brought against dozens of individuals. 2 765 20 Previously in trend: Ammunition caches
Police special operation "Black Cartridge": scheme to supply weapons to top Russian politicians and propagandists has been exposed. VIDEO&PHOTOS As a result of the ‘Black Cartridge’ special operation, police have dismantled a supply chain for ‘award’ weapons intended for controversial Russian politicians and propagandists. 9 975 28 Previously in trend: Smuggling of weapons
Military instructor who attempted to sell machine guns and ammunition has been arrested. PHOTO Officials from the SBI reported that they had notified a battalion group instructor from a military unit of his suspicion for attempting to sell two machine guns and ammunition. 3 559 13 Previously in trend: Smuggling of weapons
Walked around residential complex with assault rifle: police detain 37-year-old man in Kyiv. PHOTOS Law enforcement officers have detained a 37-year-old man who was walking around a residential complex with an assault rifle. 7 322 60
NAUDI showcases latest developments and outlines future of Ukraine’s defense industry at Gunsmith Day event. PHOTOS The National Association of Ukraine’s Defense Industries (NAUDI) held a demonstration exhibition of modern weapons and military equipment. Around 50 member companies of the Association took part in the event, including Ukrainian Armor, Altair Technologies and Airlogix. 1 566 1 Previously in trend: Ukrainian defense industry Drone industry
Walking street with pistol: police detain man in Kyiv. PHOTO On Monday, April 20, police officers detained a man in the Sviatoshynskyi district of Kyiv who was walking down the street with an object resembling a pistol. 5 483 33 Previously in trend: Illegal possession of weapons
Police have detained two soldiers who fled their unit armed and killed two people in Kharkiv region. PHOTOS In the Kharkiv region, law enforcement officers have arrested suspects in the murder of two men in a village. 5 075 11 Previously in trend: Arrest for murder
Strengthening defence partnership: NAUDI holds meetings with Czech defence industry companies. PHOTOS On Wednesday, March 18, bilateral B2B meetings were held in Kyiv between private Ukrainian and Czech defence manufacturers, organised by the National Association of Ukrainian Defence Industries (NAUDI). 1 699 2 Previously in trend: Aid to Ukraine from the Czech Republic Cooperation of Ukraine and Czechia Production of weapons
SSU and National Police detain 4 more traffickers who sought to set up illegal arms trade in Ukraine. PHOTOS The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) and the National Police have prevented new attempts to sell "trophy" weapons and ammunition on the black market in different regions of Ukraine. 2 373 8 Previously in trend: Illegal possession of weapons Smuggling of weapons
Illegal arms supply channel blocked and its organisers exposed, - National Police. VIDEO+PHOTOS Residents of the Kyiv region who were selling trophy weapons, ammunition, and explosives have been detained. Specifically, these items included various types of grenades, TNT blocks, and ammunition. 1 638 4 Previously in trend: Illegal arms trafficking
Manufacturer Spetsmashkomplekt reported pressure after SSU searches and halted ammunition production. PHOTOS The Ukrainian company Spetsmashkomplekt LLC, which manufactures large-calibre 12.7×99 and 12.7×108 cartridges for the Armed Forces, announced a temporary suspension of operations following searches conducted by employees of the Security Service of Ukraine. 4 807 21 Previously in trend: Production of weapons
"Bohdana" self-propelled gun shown at arms exhibition in Saudi Arabia: it was delivered by Ukrainian An-124. PHOTOS The Ukrainian self-propelled artillery system "Bohdana" was shown for the first time at a weapons exhibition in the Middle East. 5 875 12 Previously in trend: Ukrainian Arms
In Kyiv region, 7-year-old boy shot his 6-year-old neighbour with his father’s gun: the court handed down sentence. PHOTO In the Kyiv region, a court has handed down a verdict in a case involving the negligent storage of weapons, which led to the death of a young child. While playing, a 7-year-old boy shot and killed his neighbours' 6-year-old daughter. 9 196 17 Previously in trend: Murder of children
549 drones found at home: A soldier selling weapons exposed in Donetsk region. VIDEO&PHOTOS In Donetsk Oblast, a soldier was detained for illegally selling weapons, including MANPADS and machine guns. During a search, more than 500 drones, explosives, and electric detonators were found in his possession. 7 079 50 Previously in trend: Illegal arms trafficking
Odesa police dismantled interregional channel for selling weapons on black market. PHOTOS In the Odesa region, National Police officers dismantled an interregional channel for selling weapons on the black market. 1 373 5 Previously in trend: Illegal arms trafficking
Number of lost and stolen weapons in Ukraine has increased. INFOGRAPHICS Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in Ukraine, more than 491,000 weapons have been lost or stolen. This indicates an almost twofold increase in this figure over the past year alone. 2 587 12
SSU has exposed dealer who attempted to sell Ukrainian Defence Forces naval artillery to Russia. PHOTOS The SSU prevented the export of critical components for shipboard artillery systems from Ukraine. We are talking about artillery systems of various types: from six-barreled AO-18 assault rifles to universal AK-176M guns worth almost USD 1.5 million. 9 711 27
DIU provided diplomats with evidence of supply of Western components for production of weapons by Russian Federation. PHOTOS Experts from the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine presented Ukrainian and foreign diplomats with evidence of the supply of Western components for the production of Russian weapons. 3 224 43 Previously in trend: Components for Russian weapons Supply of foreign components for Russian military intustry
Kellogg was shown Western-made components in Russian weapons, - DIU of MoD. VIDEO+PHOTOS Specialists from the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine briefed US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg on Western-made components in Russian weapons. 9 245 18 Previously in trend: Kellogg’s visit to Kyiv
Zelenskyy held meeting on situation in defence sector: there must be more Ukrainian weapons. PHOTO President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting on the situation in the defence sector. 1 335 17 Previously in trend: Ukrainian weapons production
Ukrainian combat module "Khyzhak" codified and approved for use in Armed Forces of Ukraine, - Ministry of Defence. PHOTO The domestic remote-controlled combat module "Khyzhak" has been codified and approved for use in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. 3 054 7 Previously in trend: Codification of weapons
Soldier who attempted to sell stolen weapons worth over UAH 1.7 million has been detained, - SBI. PHOTO SBI officers detained and served a notice of suspicion to a serviceman who tried to illegally sell weapons that were on the balance sheet of his military unit in Donetsk region. 3 554 13 Previously in trend: Illegal arms trafficking
Russian assault rifles, sniper rifles, explosives: six traffickers selling "trophy" weapons detained – SSU. PHOTOS The Security Service of Ukraine, together with the State Bureau of Investigation and the National Police, detained six individuals who were attempting to organize the illegal sale of "trophy" weapons across four different regions of Ukraine. 2 446 15 Previously in trend: Illegal arms trafficking Illegal possession of weapons
Law enforcement officer from Pokrovsk resold captured weapons with acquaintance, according to SBI. PHOTOS SBI officers, with the assistance of the SSU and the National Police, exposed a law enforcement officer from Pokrovsk, Donetsk region, and his accomplice, who organised a channel for illegal sale of trophy weapons. 2 119 9 Previously in trend: Illegal arms trafficking
Frontline troops receive mortar rounds with "extremely poor-quality" propellant. PHOTO Ukrainian defenders on one of the most intense frontlines have reported that newly supplied mortar rounds contain propellant of "extremely poor quality." 9 268 64 Previously in trend: Supply of faulty mortar shells
Father and son detained for setting up ammunition and weapons caches in Desnianskyi district of Kyiv - SBI. VIDEO&PHOTOS. VIDEO&PHOTOS Two Kyiv residents were served a notice of suspicion for organising and arranging storage facilities in Kyiv for weapons that were being transported from the frontline territories and combat zones. 6 411 28 Previously in trend: Ammunition caches
He stored box of missiles in basement of high-rise building: Berdychiv resident faces up to 7 years in prison. PHOTO During a search at the residence of a 49-year-old man, law enforcement officers in Berdychiv found a box containing eight aircraft missiles. The items, which posed a real threat to the life and health of the residents of the house, were seized by the police. The pre-trial investigation is ongoing. 8 029 33 Previously in trend: Stored missiles in the basement
Sanctioned Russian cargo ship transported military equipment from Syria across English Channel - Times. PHOTOS The Russian cargo ship Baltic Leader, which is under US sanctions, transported military equipment from Syria across the English Channel this week, accompanied by a warship. 7 891 12 Previously in trend: Sanctioned Russian vessel
15 dealers, who organised illegal sale of "trophy" weapons and ammunition, detained - SSU. PHOTOS The Security Service of Ukraine and the National Police stopped a number of attempts to illegally sell weapons and explosives in different regions of Ukraine. 2 328 6
Grenade launchers, ammunition, explosives seized: police conduct 19 searches in Kherson region to shut down arms trafficking channels. PHOTOS In the Kherson region, law enforcement officers conducted 19 searches to shut down arms trafficking channels. The seized items include firearms, grenade launchers and explosives. 1 354 4
More than 800 weapons and 57 kg of explosives: over 1000 simultaneous searches for illegal arms trafficking conducted throughout Ukraine - National Police. PHOTOS During a large-scale special operation across Ukraine, police seized more than 800 weapons, 482 grenades, 46,000 rounds of ammunition and more than 57 kg of explosives. 3 930 18
Umerov and Canadian Chief of Defence Staff Carignan discussed security priorities and increased arms supplies. PHOTOS Minister of Defence of Ukraine Rustem Umerov met with Chief of Defence Staff of Canada General Jenny Carignan. 1 131 13
58 hand grenades of various types, mines, including anti-tank mines, anti-tank grenade launcher and more than 1,600 rounds of ammunition found in forest belt in Poltava region. PHOTOS A grenade launcher, mines and hand grenades were found in the woods near Poltava. The discovery was reported by a local resident. 6 485 9
SSU and National Police detain 5 dealers who wanted to set up trade of "trophy" weapons of occupiers. PHOTOS The SSU and the National Police uncovered attempts to illegally sell weapons in Zhytomyr, Cherkasy and Kirovohrad regions. 2 308 5 Previously in trend: War
Grenade launchers, flamethrowers, anti-tank and anti-personnel mines: law enforcement officers discover ammunition depot in Kharkiv. PHOTOS Law enforcement officers discovered an ammunition depot in Kharkiv. The room for storing the weapons was arranged in one of the garage cooperatives in Nemyshlianskyi district. 4 227 17
Ammunition, spare parts for armored personnel carriers and generators: Lithuania hands over new batch of military aid to Ukraine. PHOTO This week, Lithuania handed over another batch of military aid to Ukraine. 3 027 10 Previously in trend: Aid to Ukraine
SAR 762 MT universal machine gun has been approved for use in AFU. PHOTO The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has codified and authorized the SAR 762 MT 7.62 x 51 mm NATO-calibre universal machine gun for use in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. 9 757 13
Ukraine increased drone production 10 times in year - Ministry of Digital Transformation. INFOGRAPHICS In 2024, compared to 2023, the production capacity of the Ukrainian drone industry increased 10 times. 1 488 10
IDF found most modern Russian weapons at Hezbollah bases in Lebanon - Netanyahu. PHOTOS The Israeli military discovered "state-of-the-art Russian weapons" during searches at the bases of the Hezbollah terrorist group in southern Lebanon. 21 852 58
Russian-made weapons were found at "Hezbollah" positions in Lebanon - Israeli media. VIDEO&PHOTOS Israeli troops seize Russian-made weapons at Hezbollah positions. 17 870 49 Previously in trend: War
Page 1 of 12
more photo