New satellite images show aftermath of Ukrainian strikes on Chonhar Bridge

Satellite images from Planet Labs clearly show the aftermath of the strikes on the Chonhar Bridge. The footage reveals dark marks from impacts in the central part of the crossing, as well as a pontoon bridge deployed nearby.

An analysis of satellite imagery from previous years conducted by Schemes suggests that Russia likely prepared in advance for potential Ukrainian strikes on this key logistical artery.

In particular, a pontoon crossing near the Chonhar Bridge first appeared in June 2023. Later, Russian forces concealed it under the bridge.

Photo: Damage caused by strikes on the Chonhar Bridge (Schemes)

Photo: Damage caused by strikes on the Chonhar Bridge (Schemes)

The Chonhar Bridge is the shortest and most convenient route between occupied Crimea and mainland Ukraine. Russian forces used this crossing to transfer military equipment, ammunition, and other supplies to the southern front.

Routes through Armiansk and Perekop are considered less efficient, as they are longer and more logistically complicated.

The first strike on the Chonhar Bridge occurred on June 7. After the attack, Russian forces partially restored traffic by introducing alternating one-way movement.

However, on June 9, the crossing came under drone attack again, forcing traffic to be suspended. Following this, the occupation administration recommended using alternative routes through Armiansk and Perekop.

In addition, on June 10, Russian occupation authorities in the Kherson region temporarily closed the bridge between Henichesk and the Arabat Spit. This is already the second critical crossing that the authorities have been forced to close in recent days following the strikes on the Chonhar Bridge.

Russian forces have also banned the movement of military cargo along the Mariupol–Simferopol highway due to ongoing Ukrainian drone strikes.