Ukraine reportedly launched a military attack on the Crimean (Kerch) Bridge, which connects Crimea with Russia, using 12 ATACMS missiles on August 15 to 16. The construction of the bridge was completed between 2016 and 2018 after Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. The attack resulted in the suspension of traffic on the bridge for several hours, causing disruptions in the area. Ukraine has long considered the bridge a legitimate target and has criticized Russia’s actions in Crimea.
In addition to the attack on the Crimean Bridge, Ukraine also reportedly targeted a second bridge in the Kursk region as part of its cross-border military offensive. Russia believes that the weapons used in the attack, likely American HIMARS rockets, were supplied by the U.S. A Russian foreign ministry spokesperson expressed concern over the destruction caused by the attack on the Seim River bridge in the Glushkovsky district, which resulted in casualties among volunteers aiding civilians in the region. Ukrainian Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk shared footage of the attack, highlighting the use of high-precision strikes against enemy targets.
The military offensive launched by Ukraine, which began on August 6, marks the first time Russia has been invaded by a foreign power since World War II. General Christopher Cavoli, the Supreme Allied Commander Europe, noted that Russia has had a slow and scattered reaction to the offensive. The Russian Ministry of Defense has announced the establishment of a coordination council for several regions to enhance support for troop groups securing the state border and protecting the population. The council aims to streamline efforts and improve the efficiency of military operations in response to the incursion.
The situation between Ukraine and Russia has escalated as Ukraine’s military offensive continues into Russian territory. The attacks on the Crimean and Kursk region bridges have raised concerns about the potential for further conflict and casualties in the region. The targeting of critical infrastructure such as bridges poses a threat to the stability and security of the area. The involvement of Western-made weapons, allegedly supplied by the U.S., has further complicated the situation and increased tensions between the two countries.
Ukraine’s actions in targeting the bridges and conducting high-precision strikes reflect its determination to assert control and defend its interests in the region. The use of military force as a strategic tactic in the conflict underscores the complexities and challenges involved in resolving the longstanding dispute between Ukraine and Russia. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and calling for dialogue and diplomatic solutions to prevent further escalation and uphold peace in the region. It remains to be seen how the conflict will unfold and what impact it will have on the stability and security of the area.
