Ukrainian man says suspected Russian drone chased him before exploding

A Ukrainian citizen was caught on video as a suspected Russian drone pursued him before detonating in a residential area near Kharkiv on Thursday. The footage, shared by the man on social media, shows the aircraft following his movements for several minutes before it crashed in a nearby courtyard, causing a loud explosion that shattered windows and sparked a small fire.

According to the video, the drone appeared to be a low‑altitude surveillance model, hovering close enough to track the man’s route. Witnesses report that the aircraft accelerated toward the man, who reportedly ran to a nearby building to avoid the impact. Emergency services arrived within minutes, extinguishing the fire and treating minor injuries among bystanders. Ukrainian defense officials have said the incident is under investigation, noting that similar drone attacks have increased in the region over the past month.

The incident underscores the ongoing risk of unmanned aircraft in conflict zones and highlights the challenges civilians face in areas of active hostilities. Authorities are reviewing the footage to determine the drone’s origin and purpose, while local officials urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious aerial activity.