Overnight on July 11, Ukrainian drones launched a significant operation in the Sea of Azov, reportedly hitting 21 Russian tankers and seven other vessels. These targets, including tugboats and cargo ships, are believed to be involved in transporting oil and supporting Russian military logistics, with the strikes potentially disrupting traffic through the Kerch Strait and the Don-Azov Canal. This action follows similar Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian shipping near occupied Crimea, underscoring ongoing efforts to cripple Russia’s maritime operations and sanction circumvention. The extent of the damage is still being assessed, but market analysts note that disruptions to Russian grain exports, a significant portion of which transit through the Sea of Azov, could impact global wheat futures.
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Ukrainian forces successfully struck at least three ferries near Port Kavkaz, Russia, causing them to catch fire. Footage confirms significant damage to multiple vessels, with one identified as the railway ferry Elena II. This ferry, previously operated in Greece, is part of the logistics network supporting Russian invasion activities and was recently deployed to Black Sea routes. The attack on these ferries highlights Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to disrupt Russian military logistics.
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In a significant blow to Russian logistics, Ukraine’s military intelligence reported the disabling of the railway ferry “Slavyanin” in the Kerch Strait by a drone strike on April 6. This loss marks the final such vessel supporting Russian military operations in occupied Crimea, having been used to transport vital supplies like fuel, ammunition, and equipment. The “Slavyanin” had been previously targeted in March, following a similar disabling strike on another Russian railway ferry, “Avangard.” The operation effectively removes a key logistical asset crucial for Russian supply routes to the peninsula, especially given the pressure on land-based lines.
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Following a multi-month operation, Ukrainian forces claim to have successfully attacked the Kerch Strait bridge connecting Russia to occupied Crimea using underwater explosives. The strike, targeting the bridge’s underwater pillars, reportedly caused damage and resulted in the suspension of both road and maritime traffic. Russian officials have confirmed the traffic halt, though Moscow has yet to officially comment on the alleged Ukrainian attack. This strategically important bridge, built after Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, is a significant symbol of Russian occupation.
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John Q. Hosedrinker