Russian forces, operating in occupied Ukrainian territories, are reportedly using modified Tesla Cybertrucks, according to Kremlin-backed Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. The futuristic vehicles, armed with machine guns, are said to be assisting Russian troops in what Russia calls a “special military operation” in Ukraine.
Kadyrov, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, claimed that two Cybertrucks have already been deployed to the frontlines. “Two more Cybertrucks have been sent to the zone of the special military operation,” he stated. “Western technology performs well against its own Western ‘Ukronazis.’ Mobility, convenience, maneuverability—such qualities of the electric vehicle are highly valued here.”
The Chechen leader also reassured that the vehicles have not been impacted by any remote deactivation attempts. “The machines are operating normally without failures,” he added, referring to concerns that Tesla’s owner, Elon Musk, could disable the vehicles remotely.
Kadyrov Demonstrates Cybertruck Capabilities
Kadyrov previously showcased the Cybertruck’s abilities in a video posted in August. The footage, which drew widespread attention, featured Kadyrov driving a Cybertruck around his palace grounds. The truck was equipped with a machine gun turret, and Kadyrov posed in front of the weapon, wearing an ammunition belt.
At the time, he mentioned that the vehicle would soon be deployed to the Donbas region, where some of the most intense fighting in the war has taken place. He also hinted at the possibility of more advanced technology being used in the conflict, saying he hoped for further innovations from Tesla’s founder, Elon Musk.
No Comment From Tesla
Despite the growing attention surrounding the use of Cybertrucks in the conflict, Tesla has not yet made any public statements regarding these reports. It remains unclear how extensively the vehicles are being utilized by Russian forces or whether the company has any control over their use in military operations.
The reported use of Tesla’s vehicles in the war has raised concerns, as Tesla is known for its advanced technology, including the ability to remotely control and update vehicles through software. The involvement of such technology in warfare has sparked debate over ethical and legal implications.