Ukrainian Soldiers Attend Drone Racing Event in Truskavets

Around 300 soldiers traveled at least 16 hours by road from Ukraine's eastern front to attend a drone racing event in Truskavets on May 19 and 20. The fourth edition of Wild Drones took place at a run-down amusement park on the edge of the Carpathian spa town. Races were shown on a giant screen, accompanied by a barbecue, an awards ceremony, and music featuring death metal and phonk tracks.

Dmytro, 44, known as "Tatami," started a drone race during the event. Drones of various sizes flew above old fairground attractions including decrepit slides, a wooden carousel, and rusted swings. Andriy Horokhanskyi, 38, director and host of Wild Drones, said the gathering offered soldiers a short break, allowed them to invite families and friends, and included prize competitions.

The same statement said the event also served to strengthen bonds and form a community with its own culture.