At least 12 people were injured in an explosion at an ammunition depot in Moscow-annexed Crimea after a Ukrainian drone attack, according to the Russian Health Ministry. The attack caused the authorities to order an evacuation within a 5km radius and briefly halt traffic on the bridge connecting the peninsula to Russia. The traffic has since resumed operations, as confirmed by Russian-installed governor Sergei Aksyonov. This incident comes just five days after the same bridge was hit, resulting in two casualties.
Ukraine claims responsibility for the attack, stating that its army destroyed an oil depot and warehouses belonging to the Russian army in the temporarily occupied district of Oktiabrske in central Crimea. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the bridge as the most legitimate target because it serves as a military supply route for Russia. He emphasized that the route is used daily to feed the war with ammunition.
Crimea, which was annexed by Moscow in 2014, has been a frequent target throughout the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. In recent weeks, the number of attacks has increased following Kyiv’s counteroffensive to reclaim lost land and express its intention to reclaim Crimea.
Speaking at the Aspen Security Forum, President Zelensky stated that Russia’s Crimea bridge must be neutralized. When asked if Kyiv aims to retake Crimea, Zelensky affirmed that the ultimate goal is to regain control of the region as it is their sovereign territory and an integral part of their state.
This news article aims to provide a balanced account of the recent events in Crimea. It highlights the actions taken by both Ukraine and Russia, as well as the perspective of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding the bridge and Crimea. The situation remains tense, with both sides firmly asserting their claims and engaging in military actions.
