Russia Resumes Drone Launch Operations at Occupied Donetsk Airport

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has released satellite imagery from July 2025, which reveals that Russia has undertaken significant efforts to restore a runway at the occupied Donetsk Airport. This development is interpreted as a strategic move to enhance the capability for launching kamikaze drones, a tactic that has been increasingly used in the ongoing conflict. The ISW notes that this adjustment may signal an evolving approach by Russian forces, focusing on more aggressive and targeted operations in the region. The implications of this development could affect the dynamics of the conflict, potentially increasing the risk of civilian casualties and altering the strategic landscape of the war. As the situation unfolds, analysts are closely monitoring the potential impact of these military activities on the broader conflict and the surrounding areas.