MOSCOW: Russian air defence systems successfully neutralized all 38 drones launched by Ukraine towards the Crimean Peninsula early on Sunday.
The Russian defence ministry confirmed the interception, responding to reports of powerful explosions near the port of Feodosia.
While the extent of damage or casualties remains undisclosed, road traffic in the vicinity of Feodosia was notably restricted following the incident. The bridge connecting the Crimean Peninsula to the Russian mainland experienced a temporary halt in traffic before resuming normal operations.
Reports of explosions in the area emerged on both Ukrainian and Russian social media platforms, with residents of Feodosia recounting the intensity of the blasts around 2 a.m. local time. However, independent verification of these reports is yet to be obtained, and Ukrainian officials have not issued an immediate response.
The Crimean Peninsula’s strategic significance, particularly since its annexation by Russia in 2014, underscores the gravity of such incidents. The Black Sea, which borders Crimea, has emerged as a vital theatre in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with increased drone attacks targeting Russian military assets.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has asserted his country’s success in weakening Moscow’s military presence in the Black Sea, emphasizing the potential for Kyiv’s allies to bolster Ukraine’s position further. However, the Black Sea also holds strategic importance for Russia, serving as a key conduit for projecting power into the Middle East and Europe.
As tensions persist and both sides maneuver for dominance in the region, the situation remains fluid, with the potential for further escalation looming large.
