SBU targets weak point of Crimean Bridge: Impact on Russia’s supply lines
Photo: Crimean Bridge (GettyImages)
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has attacked the Crimean Bridge for the third time. This time, a structurally complex part of the Kerch Bridge was targeted, according to a statement by Ukrainian Navy spokesman Dmytro Pletenchuk on the air of the FREEDOM TV channel.
He noted that the Crimean Bridge combines both the physical, classical aspect of war and an ideological one. At the same time, the Russian forces use it for logistics. Pletenchuk recalled that the bridge had already been damaged during a previous operation, which significantly reduced its capacity.
"This had a tangible impact, particularly on the garrison, which, as a result, was unable to transport heavy equipment in convoys, since the railway connection is the main logistical tool of the Russian army. Before that, maritime logistics had been destroyed. And no less important is the ideological component. For the Russians, this strike, especially such a strike, can shake several of their 'spiritual bonds.' The so-called Crimean Bridge is one of those imperial pillars," Pletenchuk said.
The spokesman pointed out that the Russian forces had already understood the likelihood of losing the Crimean Bridge and therefore were developing overland logistics.
"They are trying to connect Rostov-on-Don with occupied Ukrainian Crimea through the occupied territories in southern Ukraine — the Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions. They are developing road and rail infrastructure. The advantage of this is that it’s easier to restore. But the major drawback is that it lies much closer to the line of contact. So the Russians understand that a cut-off bridge is a serious problem," the Navy spokesman explained.
What was damaged on the bridge this time
According to Pletenchuk, the Security Service of Ukraine today targeted a structurally complex part of the bridge located directly near the shipping channel.
"This is a key point, because it also concerns navigation. This part of the sea — specifically the Kerch Strait— is our area of responsibility. And officially, Ukraine banned the passage of vessels there quite some time ago... As for the bridge itself, this section is one of the most critical. And if it is struck, the consequences can be quite serious," he stated.
SBU attacked the Crimean Bridge on June 3
The Security Service of Ukraine carried out another unique operation and struck the Crimean Bridge for the third time.
According to the SBU, the operation lasted several months. Initially, SBU agents planted explosives on the bridge’s supports, and today, without any civilian casualties, the first explosive device was detonated at 4:44 a.m. local time.
The head of the SBU, Lieutenant General Vasyl Malyuk, personally oversaw the operation and coordinated its planning.
