Storm-battered defenses leave Crimean Bridge vulnerable
Storms in the Kerch Strait have severely compromised the defenses of the Crimean Bridge. Of the 34 barges placed there by the Russians—which were meant to protect the passage from potential surface drone attacks—slightly more than half remain.
Recently released satellite images have revealed the extent of the problem. In November, 34 barges were positioned around the crossing as a protective measure against water-based attacks on the bridge.
The new photographs show that only 18 barges remain in place. Additionally, there have been no observed efforts to return the missing units to their original positions.
Crimean Bridge as a target
The Crimean Bridge currently serves as a key crossing for the Russians. It provides the only land connection between the occupied peninsula and Krasnodar Krai in Russia. A significant portion of supplies for Russian troops in Ukraine is transported through this route.
Ukrainian forces have attacked the Crimean Bridge multiple times, although they have never succeeded in completely destroying it. Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR), announced that this time could be different. Destroying the bridge remains a priority for the Ukrainians. "There are chances [for success]," he assured.
