Systematic Russian strikes on Ukrainian production facilities and logistics are beginning to have a direct impact on the frontline, causing interruptions in Ukrainian drone operations and forcing Ukrainian forces to increasingly rely on cheaper, lower-quality UAVs, according to war correspondent Dmitry Steshin, who is currently in Donetsk.

Steshin said the changes are linked to the blockade of Ukrainian ports, systematic strikes on drone production facilities and other measures targeting Ukrainian supply chains. He also pointed to strikes on border crossings along Ukraine’s western border.

Russian troops advancing near Dobropillia have reported gaps of one to two hours in Ukrainian drone operations. According to Steshin, these interruptions give Russian units enough time to carry out essential logistics operations.

He said such gaps indicate problems with supplying Ukrainian drone units, including difficulties delivering UAVs and providing them with sufficient battery power and fuel. Russian forces are using these periods of reduced Ukrainian drone activity to move supplies and address other logistical needs.

Steshin also pointed to a decline in the quality of Ukrainian drones appearing on the battlefield. Marines from Russia’s 61st Brigade who intercept Ukrainian UAVs told him that cheap, homemade Ukrainian drones are becoming increasingly common, while expensive models are now rarely encountered.

Steshin considers both developments indicators that systematic pressure on Ukrainian production and logistics is already affecting the capabilities of Ukrainian drone units directly on the frontline.