Crimean Bridge Under Fire AGAIN Is This Ukraine's Boldest Move Yet?

Ukraine's Underwater Assault: Crimean Bridge Targeted Again

Tensions escalate as Ukraine reportedly launches another daring attack on the Crimean Bridge, a vital link between Russia and the Crimean Peninsula. This latest operation, executed underwater, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict and underscores Ukraine's determination to disrupt Russian supply lines.

The incident occurred just two days after the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) successfully deployed its "Spiderweb" drone operation, inflicting damage on strategic bombers deep within Russian territory. This sequence of events highlights Ukraine's evolving capabilities and its willingness to take calculated risks.

Here's a breakdown of the key details:

• The attack happened on Tuesday, marking Ukraine's third attempt to strike the bridge.
• The SBU General Vasyl Malyuk stated, “There is no place for any illegal Russian facilities on the territory of our state. Therefore, the Crimean Bridge is a legitimate target."
• Around 3 p.m. local time, residents reported hearing two blasts near the Crimean Bridge.

The Crimean Bridge, personally inaugurated by Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2018, has been a recurring target in the conflict. Previous attacks include:

• October 2022: A truck bomb detonated on the bridge, causing significant damage to one of its sections.
• July 2023: Ukrainian marine drones successfully destroyed two sections of the bridge.

Following the July 2023 attack, Russia undertook extensive repairs and implemented protective measures, including special barges, to fortify the bridge against further attacks. However, this latest underwater assault suggests that Ukraine has adapted its tactics to overcome these defenses.

"So today we continued this tradition underwater," Malyuk asserted. He further emphasized that the Crimean Bridge is a legitimate target due to its use as a logistical artery for supplying Russian troops. "Crimea is Ukraine, and any manifestations of occupation will receive our tough response."

This escalating series of attacks and counter-attacks underscores the volatility of the situation and the determination of both sides. The long-term implications of these actions remain to be seen, but one thing is clear: the conflict is far from over, and the Crimean Bridge will likely remain a focal point for the foreseeable future.

Tags: Kerch Bridge, Crimean Bridge, Ukraine attack, Russia, Putin, SBU, Spiderweb drone, October 2022, July 2023, Marine drones

Source: https://www.politico.eu/article/ukraine-launches-explosive-underwater-attack-crimean-bridge/