Ukraine intensifies drone attacks on Russian vessels in Sea of Azov
Ukraine says its long-range drones have struck dozens of Russian ships near Crimea, aiming to disrupt supply lines as the conflict enters its second year.
Ukraine has expanded its use of long-range drones to target Russian vessels operating near the occupied Crimean peninsula, part of a broader effort to hinder Moscow's logistics in the Sea of Azov. The Ukrainian military reports that the drones have hit a variety of ships, including tankers, cargo carriers and auxiliary boats, in an attempt to disrupt fuel and other supplies destined for the region.
The campaign follows earlier Ukrainian strikes on power stations, military infrastructure and transport routes that link to Crimea, which have caused power outages and fuel shortages. Russian officials have said they will increase sea deliveries to offset those shortages.
Ukraine claims to have damaged or destroyed 116 vessels in the past nine days, though independent verification is limited. Russian authorities have confirmed only a small number of attacks, while the publication has independently verified strikes on at least 11 ships.
"We are systematically disrupting the enemy's logistics chain," a Ukrainian military spokesperson said.
The increased drone activity reflects recent advances that allow the sea, surrounded by Russian-controlled territory, to be reached from Ukrainian bases.