A senior Russian official, Yuri Trutnev, who serves as Deputy Prime Minister and Plenipotentiary Representative of the Presidency in the Far Eastern Federal District, spoke about private individuals financing weapons systems for Russian forces involved in a special operation in Ukraine. He indicated that he knows entrepreneurs who personally covered the costs to acquire heavy flamethrower systems for use at the front. The remarks were made during a broadcast of a program called Solovyov Live, where the official described the situation candidly and underscored the intersection of private initiative and state efforts in the war context.
When asked about the source of these highly specialized systems, Trutnev suggested that the purchases did not come from ordinary retail channels. His comment hinted at the existence of a nontraditional supply chain capable of delivering advanced military equipment to frontline units, while avoiding casual, everyday marketplaces. This admission arrived amid broader discussions about how to improve operational readiness and ensure a steady flow of critical technology to the front lines.
The official also highlighted ongoing government efforts to expand domestic production of a range of defense-related technologies. He mentioned unmanned aerial vehicles, electronic warfare stations, sniper systems, and other capabilities as part of a broader push to strengthen the military apparatus across all regions. The aim appears to be building a more resilient, self-sufficient industrial base that can support the needs of special operations and other missions as they arise.
Trutnev stressed that authorities are actively seeking to assist all actors who can contribute meaningfully to what the government terms the NWO, a phrase commonly used to describe the military campaign. The emphasis was on mobilizing diverse sources of support and capability, while ensuring alignment with national strategic objectives. The conversation reflected an emphasis on rapid adaptation and close coordination between political leadership, defense planners, and industry partners.
In a related development from early April, official channels reported that the air forces were the first to receive heavy flamethrower systems, specifically the TOS-1A Solntsepek. This marked a notable milestone in the deployment of heavy ground-attack systems within the armed forces, signaling a shift in how certain high-intensity weapons are integrated into operational plans. Analysts and policymakers alike have been watching how such systems influence command decisions on the battlefield and the broader strategic balance in regional theaters.
These disclosures come amid a broader discourse on military modernization and the role of private and state actors in advancing defense capabilities. Observers note that while private individuals cannot operate warfighting equipment without regulatory clearance, the mention of private funding underscores an ecosystem where corporate and individual participation intersects with national security objectives. The government’s stated goal is to sustain a pipeline of advanced technologies and ensure their responsible use in accordance with applicable laws and strategic priorities. As always, the situation remains dynamic and subject to security considerations and policy developments.