Ukrainian Strike Causes Damage to Russian Ships in Crimea and Drone Attacks Hit Odesa Port
Russian ships in Crimea have been damaged in a significant strike launched by Ukraine, while drone attacks have targeted port infrastructure in the Odesa region. The ship-repair base in Russian-occupied Crimea, which serves as Russia’s main base for its Black Sea Fleet, was hit by 10 cruise missiles and three unmanned sea drones. The Russian Defense Ministry stated that it successfully shot down seven of the missiles, and the patrol ship Vasily Bykov destroyed all the boats. However, two ships were damaged, with at least 24 people injured. Ukrainian sources claim that a large vessel and a submarine were likely damaged beyond repair.
It has been reported that Ukraine utilized U.K.-provided Storm Shadow long-range cruise missiles in the attack. The strike on the strategic shipyard in Sevastopol, illegally annexed by Russia from Ukraine in 2014, resulted in flames engulfing port infrastructure. These developments come after Ukraine announced the recapture of gas and oil drilling platforms in the Black Sea, which Russia had seized in 2015. Meanwhile, in Izmayil, another Russian drone attack damaged Ukrainian port infrastructure, leaving six people injured.
The Ukrainian Air Force intercepted 32 of the 44 Shahed-type drones launched towards the Odesa region overnight. These attacks come amid Russia’s increased targeting of Ukraine’s grain-export infrastructure while discussions about the resumption of the Black Sea grain deal are ongoing. Russia exited the deal in July, just a year after it was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar warned that Russian forces were intensifying attacks on Ukrainian troops in the east of the country. The cities of Avdyivka and Maryinka are facing heightened shelling and waves of attacks. Malyar expressed concern about the deteriorating situation, highlighting the increased aggression from Russian forces.
This escalation of hostilities between Ukraine and Russia underscores the ongoing tensions in the region. The conflict has a significant impact on civilian infrastructure, with damage to ships, submarines, and port facilities. The situation remains volatile, with both sides engaging in military actions that further fuel the conflict. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to de-escalate the situation and prevent further suffering for the civilian population.
