Drone attack targets Ust-Luga port in Leningrad region: Center for Countering Disinformation comments
Photo: the CPD explained the importance of the Ust-Luz port for the Russian Federation (wikipedia.org)
Drones attacked the Ust-Luga port in the Leningrad region on January 4. This port is of significant importance to Russia in the context of the war, according to a Telegram post from Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation.
On the night of January 4, unidentified drones attacked Russia's largest seaport, the Ust-Luga port in the Leningrad region, the head of the Center for Countering Disinformation, Andriy Kovalenko, confirmed.
Why Ust-Luga port is important
Ust-Luga port plays a crucial role for Russia amid its war against Ukraine and ongoing geopolitical tensions.
"First, it serves as a logistical hub for bypassing sanctions. Ust-Luga has become one of the main export points for Russian oil, gas, coal, and other resources since the imposition of Western sanctions. The proceeds from exports are used to fund the war," said Kovalenko.
Second, according to him, the port contributes to the militarization of the Baltic region and serves as a key point for the shadow fleet's activities.
"The port is strategically located in the Baltic Sea, enabling Russia to maintain a naval presence in the region, including transporting military cargo," the military expert added.
Moreover, Ust-Luga port serves as an alternative to European routes.
"Due to sanctions, Russia lost access to many European ports, and Ust-Luga has become the main outlet to international markets. It handles cargoes for Asian countries, including China and India. Thanks to Ust-Luga, Russia also retains the ability to exert pressure on the Baltic States, Poland, and other countries in the region by controlling strategic maritime transportation," Kovalenko concluded.
As summarized by the CPD, Ust-Luga port has effectively become an instrument for Russia's economic and military survival amid its isolation.
Drone attack on Ust-Luga port
On January 4, drones attacked the largest seaport in Russia, located in the settlement of Ust-Luga in the Leningrad region. It is considered the second-largest port after Novorossiysk.
It is worth noting that on January 21, an explosion occurred near the oil terminal of the Ust-Luga Seaport. These explosions were the result of a special operation by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).
