Ukraine announced on Tuesday that its forces targeted a railway bridge, a power plant, and other crucial infrastructure in Crimea. The goal is to isolate the strategically important peninsula that remains under Russian control.
Recent drone attacks have exacerbated the situation on the Black Sea peninsula. Due to intensified Ukrainian efforts to disrupt supply lines and the power network, Russian authorities have halted gasoline sales to civilians there.
The peninsula has been under Russian control since its annexation in 2014. Ukraine’s increasing use of long-range strikes demonstrates its capacity to inflict significant damage and adds pressure on Moscow. Military advances by Russia have almost come to a standstill.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov stated last week, “Our forces are isolating Crimea with drones.” He suggested that Crimea could soon become an ‘island,’ affecting Russian operations unexpectedly.
Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged a warning that Ukraine intends to disrupt energy supplies and the tourism industry. While he did not specify the source, he mentioned the challenges posed by a surge in Ukrainian drone activity.
Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak informed Putin that officials were considering halting diesel exports to safeguard motorist resources in Russia. This comes amid existing bans on jet fuel and gasoline exports. Maintenance at refineries has also been deferred.
Ukraine has expanded its reach, hitting targets near the Kremlin and in St. Petersburg earlier this month. Several parts of Crimea experienced power outages, which local energy suppliers called “technical malfunctions.” Power was set to be restored swiftly.
Crimea plays a crucial role due to its naval bases and strategic Black Sea location. Russian-appointed officials have been reticent about recent strikes but have implemented new security measures. The Ministry of Sport canceled events and training sessions until September for safety reasons.
Additionally, Governor Sergei Aksyonov announced the suspension of new bookings for summer camps, prioritizing security until September 1.
In eastern Ukraine, where Russia’s invasion has dragged on since February 2022, Ukrainian deployment of advanced drones has effectively stalled enemy actions. Medium-range drones disrupt Russian supply lines, while long-range strikes diminish oil facilities crucial for the Kremlin’s revenue.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry reported over 800,000 enemy targets hit by domestically produced drones this year, boosting national confidence. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy affirmed sustained foreign support for Ukraine’s fight.
Ukrainian U.N. Ambassador Andrii Melnyk reiterated Kyiv’s willingness to negotiate with Russia within the U.N. Charter framework. However, he emphasized that Ukraine’s readiness to compromise is not indefinite. He urged Russia to withdraw from occupied territories.
Recent Ukrainian strikes, Melnyk noted, have changed the war’s dynamics, signaling escalation in Ukrainian efforts.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov declared Russia’s commitment to ensuring Belarus’s security. Ukraine had accused Belarus of aiding Russian drone attacks with relay equipment stationed on its territory. Lavrov criticized Kyiv for attempts to involve Belarus in the conflict.