The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has led to changes in combat strategies over the past four years, with one of the most notable developments being the role of drones in warfare. Ukrainian soldier Viktor Starinin recounts the pressing reality at the frontlines in Eastern Donetsk, where the presence of enemy drones alters the behavior of troops and their tactics. Soldiers are now trained to minimize their visibility and movement, as any noticeable action can lead to exposure and targeted attacks from Russian forces.

Starinin highlights the mental toll this ongoing conflict places on soldiers, who often resort to praying that enemy drones do not detect them. The dangerous environment has forced Ukrainian troops to reduce the number of artillery fires they would normally make, as revealing their positions could lead to deadly counterattacks. He explains the challenges faced when trying to deliver supplies to the front, noting that military transport vehicles have been attacked and destroyed by drones, which adds further risks to an already perilous mission in the trenches.

Long hours spent in the trenches are now compounded by the constant threat of aerial surveillance and aggression from Russian reconnaissance drones. The necessity for soldiers to disguise their uniforms with mud and remain nearly stationary in order to avoid detection reflects the dire circumstances of the frontline. This long-term conflict has deeply affected the Ukrainian military's operational capacity, as the presence of technology on the battlefield continues to redefine traditional methods of engagement.