Ukraine Strikes Crimea Bridge Again as Russian Forces Advance in the North

Credit: CNN Newsource

Ukraine says it has carried out a bold new attack on the bridge linking mainland Russia to the Crimean Peninsula. Known as the Kerch Bridge, it is a critical supply route for Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. According to Ukrainian officials, 1,100 kilograms of explosives were used in a months-long underwater operation carried out by Ukraine’s Security Service.

This is the third time Ukraine has targeted the 12-mile road and rail bridge since Russia’s full-scale invasion began. A 2022 blast temporarily halted supplies. Then, in 2023, Ukraine deployed a water drone dubbed a “Sea Baby,” causing further damage at water level. Despite these efforts, the multi-billion dollar structure, opened by Vladimir Putin in 2018, has so far remained intact.

Crimea, roughly the size of Maryland, was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. It remains central to Russia's strategy—home to the Black Sea Fleet and a key base for launching attacks into Ukraine. Since the 2022 invasion, Moscow has also established a land corridor to support its grip on the peninsula. Ukraine, however, continues to vow it will never relinquish Crimea.

The latest bridge strike comes on the heels of another strategic Ukrainian attack on Russian long-range bombers at an airbase far from the frontlines. These actions are seen as morale-boosting maneuvers, even as Ukraine loses ground in places like Sumy, where Russian artillery strikes have moved closer to city centers. At least four civilians were killed and around 20 injured in Sumy on Tuesday, according to local officials.

Despite calls from President Donald Trump for a ceasefire, Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no sign of backing down, opting instead for continued conflict.

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