Traffic on the Kerch Bridge, a key link between Russian-occupied Crimea and mainland Russia, was suspended early on December 6 following reports of explosions in the city of Kerch, local Telegram channels reported. Witnesses described hearing blasts near the Zaliv shipyard at approximately 7 a.m. local time, according to Krymskiy Veter and RFE/RL.
The Russian Defense Ministry attributed the incident to Ukrainian aerial and naval drone attacks. In a statement, officials claimed that Russian forces intercepted and neutralized one aerial drone and two maritime drones in the vicinity of the Kerch region. Kyiv has yet to comment on the reported attack.
This latest incident is part of an ongoing pattern of strikes targeting Crimea, a territory annexed by Moscow in 2014. The Kerch Bridge, which serves as a vital logistical and symbolic link for Russia, has been a frequent target. In October 2022, a powerful explosion caused a partial collapse of the bridge’s road section and ignited a significant fire on the railway section, leaving three people dead, according to Russian reports.
The strategic significance of the Kerch Bridge and Crimea’s role in the broader conflict between Ukraine and Russia have made the region a flashpoint for military action. These events underscore the ongoing tensions as the war continues to escalate.
