Ukraine Hits Crimean Bridge for the Third Time
Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) has successfully carried out a months-long covert operation that struck the Crimean Bridge for a third time—this time with a precision underwater explosion, SBU reported on July 3.
At 4:44 a.m., the first blast rocked the bridge, severely damaging underwater support pillars with an estimated 1,100 kg of explosives in TNT equivalent, according to Ukrainian intelligence officials. No civilian casualties were reported.
The operation, planned and executed in total secrecy, targeted the illegal structure's underwater foundations, rendering the bridge—used by Russia as a vital military logistics route—in a critically damaged state.
Lieutenant General Vasyl Maliuk, head of the SBU, personally oversaw the operation from start to finish.
'The Crimean Bridge is a completely legitimate target, especially given that the enemy has used it as a logistical artery to supply its troops. Crimea is Ukraine, and any signs of occupation will receive a harsh response,' he said.
This marks the third successful Ukrainian attack on the Crimean Bridge since Russia's full-scale invasion began, but the first to use underwater demolition tactics.
Earlier, Commander of the Ukrainian Navy, Vice Admiral Oleksiy Neizhpapa stated that Ukraine is actively discussing a third operation targeting the Crimean Bridge.
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