THE USE OF DRONES IN THE WAR IN UKRAINE AND CHANGES IN LEGAL REGULATIONS

The conflict in Ukraine is characterised by extensive use of unmanned aerial vehicles, commonlyknown as drones, by various parties involved in the conflict. This article examines the evolvinglandscape of drone warfare in the context of the war in Ukraine and the corresponding changes inlegal regulations governing their use.Drawing upon a comprehensive review of existing literature, legal documents and news reports,this study explores the historical development of drone technology, its utilization in militaryoperations and its specific application within the Ukrainian conflict. It analyses legal frameworksgoverning drone warfare, including international humanitarian law (IHL), international humanrights law (IHRL) and domestic regulations, and assesses their effectiveness in addressing thechallenges posed by drones in armed conflict.Through detailed case studies and empirical evidence, the article examines specific incidents, tacticsand strategies involving drones in the conflict in Ukraine, highlighting their impact on militaryoperations, civilian population and compliance with legal regulations. Ethical considerations andhuman rights implications associated with the use of drones are also explored, with focus on issuessuch as civilian casualties, targeted killings and surveillance practices.The conducted research is predominantly of an applied nature – it enriches the existing sciencewith new conclusions resulting from the analysis of available research. The aim of the researchis to answer the complementary question in the title (what) is the impact of UAVs on the war inUkraine in terms of impact on armed conflict and legal challenges. In the conducted research usewas made of a number of scientific research methods in a holistic way, the main ones being: themethod of analysis and criticism of literature listed in the bibliography, the method of individualcases and document examination methods. This article contributes to scholarly understanding of the interconnections between technology,warfare, law and provides insights into the complex dynamics of modern conflict and the evolvingrole of drones in it. It underscores the importance of adapting legal regulations to keep pace withtechnological advancements and emerging security threats and calls for greater attention to theethical dimensions of drone warfare in shaping future policy and practice.The study identifies key challenges, debates and controversies surrounding the use of dronesin armed conflict, including questions of accountability, transparency and the protection offundamental rights and freedoms. It concludes with policy recommendations aimed at addressingthese challenges and ensuring the responsible and ethical use of drones in accordance withinternational legal norms and humanitarian principles.