In an assertive move demonstrating resilience and capability, Ukraine announced early Tuesday that its forces struck the Crimean Bridge, also known as the Kerch Strait Bridge, for the third time during the ongoing conflict with Russia. Months of meticulous planning involved the installation of explosives beneath the water, leading to significant damage to the bridge's foundation.
The Security Service of Ukraine (S.B.U.) released a statement claiming that the explosion occurred at 4:44 a.m., with the initial blast reportedly producing no civilian casualties. An estimated 1,100 kg of TNT was used, compromising key underwater support structures. Although the extent of the damage is yet to be thoroughly assessed, the bridge is said to be in a state of emergency, as stated by Ukrainian officials.
This attack comes on the heels of a remarkable military operation just days prior, wherein Ukrainian forces targeted Russia's strategic bombing fleet deep within Russian territory. Meanwhile, Russian state media outlet RIA Novosti confirmed that the bridge was temporarily closed to traffic post-attack, although it reopened a few hours later.
The Kerch Strait Bridge, which spans 12 miles and connects Crimea to the Russian mainland, is crucial for Russian military operations in southern Ukraine. It also holds significant symbolic value for President Vladimir Putin, who inaugurated the bridge in 2018. Previously, the bridge suffered extensive damage from a truck bomb in October 2022 and has faced two additional attacks using maritime drones over the past ten months. In response, Russian authorities have ramped up defenses and restoration efforts to secure this vital supply line.
As the conflict evolves, the implications of Ukraine's escalating strike capabilities continue to unfold, representing a shifting dynamic in the ongoing war.
The Security Service of Ukraine (S.B.U.) released a statement claiming that the explosion occurred at 4:44 a.m., with the initial blast reportedly producing no civilian casualties. An estimated 1,100 kg of TNT was used, compromising key underwater support structures. Although the extent of the damage is yet to be thoroughly assessed, the bridge is said to be in a state of emergency, as stated by Ukrainian officials.
This attack comes on the heels of a remarkable military operation just days prior, wherein Ukrainian forces targeted Russia's strategic bombing fleet deep within Russian territory. Meanwhile, Russian state media outlet RIA Novosti confirmed that the bridge was temporarily closed to traffic post-attack, although it reopened a few hours later.
The Kerch Strait Bridge, which spans 12 miles and connects Crimea to the Russian mainland, is crucial for Russian military operations in southern Ukraine. It also holds significant symbolic value for President Vladimir Putin, who inaugurated the bridge in 2018. Previously, the bridge suffered extensive damage from a truck bomb in October 2022 and has faced two additional attacks using maritime drones over the past ten months. In response, Russian authorities have ramped up defenses and restoration efforts to secure this vital supply line.
As the conflict evolves, the implications of Ukraine's escalating strike capabilities continue to unfold, representing a shifting dynamic in the ongoing war.
