A Ukrainian sniper unit on Thursday reportedly broke the world record for the longest confirmed sniper kill, eliminating Russian troops from a distance of more than 13,000 feet (4,000 meters). The shot, fired by a Ukrainian-produced rifle and aided by artificial intelligence and drone guidance, left two Russian soldiers dead in the area of Pokrovsk, Ukraine, according to the Kyiv Post.
“The record-breaking shot was made on Aug. 14, 2025, using artificial intelligence under the guidance of [an unmanned aerial vehicle] complex with a 14.5 mm alligator rifle,” said military journalist Yuri Butusov, citing the Kyiv Post.
The shooting took place amid increased Russian attacks in the surrounding area of Pokrovsk, which was once a city with more than 60,000 residents. This development underscores Ukraine’s use of advanced military technology in its ongoing conflict with Russia.
The record-breaking shot reportedly occurred a day before President Donald Trump’s closely-watched summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders held a joint press conference, where Putin described the talks as a “constructive atmosphere of mutual respect.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet with Trump in Washington, D.C., to discuss strategies for ending the war.
Zelenskyy stated on X that he and Trump will “discuss all of the details regarding ending the killing and the war.” This meeting comes at a critical juncture as the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, with both sides reporting significant casualties and military engagements.