Russia's State Duma has put forth a draft law aimed at penalizing Russian soldiers caught using smartphones while engaged in combat in Ukraine. The proposal comes in response to concerns that electronic devices could potentially disclose troops' whereabouts on the battlefield.
The draft law, supported by the State Duma Committee on Defense, categorizes carrying internet-connected cell phones that could reveal the identity or location of Russian forces as a 'gross disciplinary offense.' Offenders could face up to 10 days of arrest for a first offense, with repeated violations potentially resulting in up to 15 days of arrest.
In addition to smartphones, the law would also prohibit the use of other electronic devices capable of video and audio recording, as well as transmitting geolocation data, under the guise of 'household purposes.'
Both Russian and Ukrainian military forces have reportedly utilized enemy cell phones to pinpoint targets during the conflict, extracting data from images and messages to track coordinates and launch attacks.
Last year, the United States and its intelligence allies raised alarms over Russian military hackers targeting Ukrainian soldiers' mobile devices to obtain sensitive battlefield information.
Following a Ukrainian strike that claimed the lives of nearly 100 Russian troops in Makiivka, Russia's Defense Ministry attributed the incident to the widespread use of cell phones among its soldiers, though this assessment faced skepticism.
While the Kremlin acknowledges the risks associated with soldiers carrying smartphones, some Russian military bloggers have criticized the proposed law, arguing that it demonstrates a lack of understanding of modern warfare.
One blogger suggested the development of a 'controlled' gadget that safeguards sensitive information, emphasizing the necessity of technological tools in contemporary warfare.
Russian soldiers are already prohibited from disclosing information that could compromise the identity or location of military personnel.
As part of Russia's legislative process, the draft law must undergo review by the Duma before advancing to the Federation Council for further consideration.
