Firefighters in Kramatorsk, led by station chief Dmõtro, have reported a significant increase in the destruction and challenges they face in 2025, which has been deemed the 'year of peace talks.' He notes that extensive damage results in prolonged operational hours, sometimes requiring firefighters to work entire shifts on-site amidst exceptional fire conditions. The extensive damage has necessitated the firefighting forces to coordinate over three shifts to manage the large-scale fires and clear road debris.

Reflecting on previous years, Dmõtro recalls the intense bombardment that Kramatorsk endured from March to May in 2022, during which firefighters were constantly on alert. Although 2023 and 2024 saw a temporary reduction in incidents, the situation sharply escalated again in 2025. The recurrence of violence and destruction underscores the unpredictable nature of the conflict as firefighters prepare for further challenges.

The ongoing military strikes by Russia, which indiscriminately target both civilian and military infrastructures, have exacerbated the situation in Kramatorsk. Firefighters face nightly drone and rocket attacks, further complicating their operations. Daylight bombings have inflicted severe damage, with various types of munitions being deployed, including heavy air bombs and cluster bombs, leading to an evolving and dangerous environment for first responders and civilians alike.