Russian Business Lobby Pushes for Heavier Weaponry to Counter Ukrainian Drone Threats

On 26 May 2026, Alexander Shokhin, head of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, told President Vladimir Putin that Russian firms are ready to fund heavier weapons and electronic-warfare systems. He called for a financing mechanism, such as a fund, and a deferral of tax penalties during repairs.

The Straits TimesThe Independent

Ukrainian drones intensified attacks on Russian oil refineries, storage sites, fertiliser plants and ports in 2026, prompting the government to authorize private security firms to use 7.62-calibre rifles such as the AK-47. Business leaders say light weapons alone cannot deter the threat.

The Independent

The proposal was presented by Alexander Shokhin, representing the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, to President Vladimir Putin. Omsk region governor Vitaly Khotsenko also attended the Kremlin meeting.

The Straits Times

Shokhin suggested a dedicated fund or other targeted financing scheme to channel corporate contributions for the new weaponry. He also asked the state to postpone penalties for delayed tax and other payments while firms repair drone-damaged facilities.

The Straits Times

Private security firms protecting industrial sites may now carry 7.62-calibre rifles, and reservists have been drafted into local protection units. Shokhin complained that frequent redeployment of these units weakens site security, highlighting the perceived inadequacy of existing light-weapon defences.

The Straits Times

The surge in drone attacks coincided with Russia’s announcement of systematic strikes on Kyiv facilities linked to the Ukrainian armed forces. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov framed those strikes as retaliation for Moscow-called terrorist attacks on Russian civilians, underscoring a broader shift toward intensified offensive and defensive postures.

The Independent

The sources do not record organized opposition to the financing plan, nor provide details on the size, governance or cost of the proposed fund. Quantitative data on drone incidents or damage extent are also absent, leaving key uncertainties about the threat’s scale and response adequacy.

The Independent

• "Not only light weapons of 7.62 caliber, but also larger ones, including various electronic warfare systems, laser installations and other calibers." — Alexander Shokhin, Head of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs

The Straits Times

• "Businesses are ready to finance all this work, but a mechanism is needed where financing schemes are clear. This could be a fund of some sort or another form of targeted financing." — Alexander Shokhin

The Straits Times

• "The impending strikes were 'in response to the continuing terrorist attacks by the Kyiv regime' against civilians in Russia." — Sergei Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister

The Independent

• "Ukrainian foreign minister Andrii Sybiha urged Kyiv's allies not to give in to 'Russian blackmail.'" — Andrii Sybiha, Ukrainian Foreign Minister

The Independent

Russian authorities have not yet announced a financing framework, but Shokhin’s proposal suggests industry may soon channel private capital into heavier calibers, electronic-warfare tools and laser systems. Ongoing drone activity and parallel Russian strikes on Kyiv indicate that both defensive and offensive measures will remain central to the conflict’s trajectory.

The Independent