In a significant escalation of its military operations, Kyiv has successfully targeted the Kerch Bridge in Crimea, a crucial piece of Russian infrastructure that was illegally constructed following Moscow's unilateral annexation of the Ukrainian peninsula in 2014. The Ukraine Security Service (SBU) released a dramatic video of the attack on Tuesday, showcasing an explosion that occurred underwater. This operation, meticulously planned over several months, reflects Ukraine's ongoing commitment to undermining Russian military capabilities in the region.
The SBU disclosed that the operation was executed with precision, highlighting how agents had mined the supports of the illegal bridge. In an official statement shared on Telegram, the agency revealed that the first explosive was activated at 4:44 AM, causing substantial damage without civilian casualties. The operation involved a staggering 1,100 kilograms of explosives, equivalent to TNT, which severely compromised the bridge's underwater supports.
The Kerch Bridge serves as a vital supply and transport route for Russian forces operating in the occupied territories of southern Ukraine. Its strategic importance cannot be overstated, as it links Russia directly to Crimea. This recent strike marks the third time Kyiv has targeted this key infrastructure since the onset of Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Kyiv's previous attacks on the Kerch Bridge occurred in October 2022 and July 2023. Both operations inflicted significant damage, yet the bridge remained operational following these assaults. The latest operation follows a daring mass drone attack on Russian strategic aviation just days before, signaling a shift in Ukraine's military tactics under the supervision of SBU chief Vasyl Maliuk.
In a bold declaration, Maliuk stated, “Third time's a charm. The SBU always completes its plans and never repeats itself.” He emphasized that the Crimean bridge is a legitimate target for Kyiv, reiterating, “Crimea is Ukraine, and any acts of occupation will be dealt with harshly.” This assertion underlines Ukraine's determination to reclaim its territory and confront Russian aggression head-on.
Local Telegram channels reported that traffic on the Crimean bridge was halted on Tuesday morning following the attack. Additionally, some Russian media outlets claimed that a Ukrainian drone was shot down over the bridge, with debris falling onto the roadway. Russia's Defence Ministry has also reported that three Ukrainian drones were downed over Crimea during the same period.
Beyond its logistical significance, the Kerch Bridge holds immense symbolic value for Moscow, representing its occupation and annexation of Crimea. The bridge serves as a physical manifestation of Russia's claims over the region, following its initial invasion of Ukraine in 2014. The previous strike in October 2022 involved a truck bomb that resulted in a massive explosion, igniting fuel tanks on a passing train and causing severe structural damage to the bridge.
Following each of Kyiv's attacks, Moscow has attempted to bolster the bridge's defenses, reflecting its status as one of the most fortified sites in the region. However, as demonstrated by the recent successful operation, Ukraine's resolve and strategic planning continue to challenge Russian control over Crimea.
