Russia authorizes emergency rescue units to use force and firearms.

Soldiers from the emergency rescue units under Russia's Ministry of Emergency Situations will soon be authorized to use force, and even firearms, while performing their duties. The newspaper Vedomosti reports this change based on a bill approved by the government commission. Sources tell the outlet that these changes aim to update laws regarding civil defense and state protection for judges and officials in law enforcement or oversight bodies.

Rescue troops can now apply force only when no other option remains to fulfill their obligations. The use of lethal force is permitted specifically to stop attempts to seize vehicles or military equipment, or to shield firefighters and federal servants from attacks that threaten their lives. They will also gain a legal way to destroy drones. A warning must precede any use of force or weapons, giving the target time to comply with orders.

This move follows an earlier step where President Vladimir Putin signed legislation on May 2 permitting customs officers to destroy all types of unmanned aerial systems over their sites. Russian guards were already legally allowed to shoot down drones near protected objects. The new rules simply broaden that authority to cover emergency responders as well.