The Russian Defense Ministry announced that all 38 drones launched by Ukraine towards the Crimean Peninsula early Sunday morning, March 3, were destroyed by Russia's air defense systems.
This statement came after reports of significant explosions in the port of Feodosia circulated on Ukrainian and Russian social media networks, according to Reuters. The Russian Defense Ministry did not report any damages or casualties in its Telegram statement according to TASS.
Traffic Restrictions and Social Media Reports
Traffic near Feodosia was reportedly restricted, as announced by Russian-appointed officials in Crimea. The bridge connecting the Crimean Peninsula to mainland Russia was temporarily closed, resuming traffic around 01:40 GMT, Russian-appointed officials in Crimea stated on Telegram.
Residents of Feodosia mentioned hearing loud explosions in the area of the maritime port and an oil depot around 2 a.m. local time (Saturday, 23:00 GMT) on social media platforms.
As of now, Ukrainian officials have not commented on the incident.
Crimea: A Strategic Theater in the Ongoing Conflict
The Crimean Peninsula, annexed by Russia from Ukraine in a move condemned by Kiev's allies in 2014, and the Black Sea have become crucial theaters in the two-year war.
Ukraine's increased drone attacks on Russian military targets have damaged or destroyed ships and shipyards in the port of Sevastopol, among other targets. Moscow utilizes its Black Sea fleet to launch distant attacks in Ukraine. For Russian President Vladimir Putin, these waters also serve as a vital springboard for projecting power into the Middle East and Europe.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that his forces have managed to diminish Moscow's military power in the Black Sea. He believes that with greater support from Kiev's allies, Ukraine could achieve victory over Russia.
