Resorts in Krasnodar region temporarily halt operations following drone assault
In the Kuban region of Russia, the past few days have been marked by a series of drone attacks and air alerts. Here's a summary of the key events that have unfolded.
On August 8, 2025, a "drone danger" alert was declared in the Krasnodar region, prompting temporary restrictions on the acceptance and dispatch of aircraft at Gelendzhik Airport. The situation in Sochi was particularly tense, with Mayor Andrei Proshunin ordering the evacuation of people from beaches due to a perceived drone attack threat.
Air defense forces were active across the entire Kuban territory, and those caught outside during the alert were advised to seek shelter in basements, ground floors, or underground passages in Sochi. Lactation rooms and water fountains were made available in terminals and near restrooms at Sochi Airport to assist passengers and visitors.
The Sochi Airport, like Gelendzhik, temporarily suspended operations due to the "drone danger" alert. Airlines warned passengers about possible delays at Sochi Airport and asked them to understand the situation, pay attention to announcements, and avoid blocking seats with belongings.
Residents of the Krasnodar region, including Sochi, experienced mobile and internet connectivity issues during the air alert, with over 1,400 complaints recorded by the service "Downdetector".
Meanwhile, the investigation into the recent drone attacks in Kuban is ongoing. On August 13, Russian authorities reported that drones had crashed on the territory of the Slavyansk-on-Kuban refinery, causing a vehicle fire that was quickly extinguished. Debris from UAVs also fell on residential buildings in Volgograd, indicating Russian air defenses were actively intercepting drones.
Russian officials have described the incidents as part of "massive UAV attacks" and have emphasized that operational and emergency services remain active on the ground to manage consequences. However, no detailed public information about specific perpetrators or the progress of formal investigations has been reported as of August 13, 2025.
The Ukrainian military is widely attributed as the actor behind these strikes, consistent with ongoing drone campaigns targeting Russian military, oil, and industrial sites in southern Russia. Multiple drone attacks have hit the Slavyansk-on-Kuban refinery, among others, causing explosions and fires but with limited confirmed damage or casualties so far.
In total, 13 drones were shot down over Russia during this time, with some over the Orel region, Kursk, and Tula, in addition to Kuban. Russian authorities have urged caution when recording PVO operations and publishing such materials, as it can hinder military operations and harm the city's security.
As the situation continues to develop, updates on the resumption of operations at Gelendzhik Airport will be provided. The public is encouraged to stay informed and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
- Politics and general news outlets are discussing the ongoing series of drone attacks in the Kuban region of Russia, as investigations into the attacks, allegedly carried out by the Ukrainian military, continue.
- In addition to the Kuban region, war-and-conflicts and political tensions have extended to other areas such as the Orel region, Kursk, and Tula, where drone attacks have also been reported.
