Russian Drone Attacks Force PrivatBank to Shut Down Branch in Druzhkivka.

PrivatBank Closes Its Branch in Druzhkivka

According to TSN.ua: PrivatBank has announced the permanent closure of its branch in Druzhkivka, Donetsk Oblast, citing an untenable security situation caused by persistent Russian drone attacks. This decision follows a severe escalation in the region, compelling the bank to suspend operations at a location that had remained open without interruption since the full-scale invasion began. The closure highlights the severe operational challenges businesses face in Ukraine's active combat zones.

The critical danger in Druzhkivka was underscored when the city was left without electricity for 15 consecutive days. In December 2025, Russian forces attacked a firefighting tanker in Druzhkivka using an FPV drone, an incident that wounded four State Emergency Service rescuers in the ensuing explosion. Such events starkly illustrate the direct threat to civilians and infrastructure in eastern Ukraine.

PrivatBank's press service stated: 'It is always painful to make such decisions, but we are forced to suspend the work of the PrivatBank branch in Druzhkivka, Donetsk region.'

This shutdown is a further testament to the extreme hazards now prevalent in the area. Other companies have made similar moves; for instance, Nova Poshta closed its last branch in Sviatohirsk due to threats to its employees and customers.

The Broader Situation in Ukraine

The closure of PrivatBank's branch in Druzhkivka and analogous decisions by other firms point to a continuing and severe security crisis in Ukraine, particularly in its eastern regions. Amid ongoing war and constant threats, businesses are being forced to adapt to harsh new realities to safeguard their staff and clients. This situation underscores the urgent need for sustained international support and a resolution to the conflict to restore stability.