Ukraine Bombing in Crimea: Latest Updates and Impact on Russian Black Sea Fleet
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Ukraine Bombs City in Crimea as Conflict Escalates
In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Ukraine launched a missile attack on the city of Sevastopol in the Crimean peninsula. This attack comes just a day after Ukraine targeted the headquarters of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in Crimea.
Missiles Intercepted, City on Alert
Debris from intercepted missiles fell near the pier in Sevastopol, prompting the city governor to put the area on air raid alert for about an hour. Another missile fragment fell in a park, leading to cordoned-off sections. Ferry traffic in the area was temporarily halted but later resumed.
Explosions and Casualties
Powerful explosions were also heard near Velen in northern Crimea, with billowing clouds of smoke reported. Ukrainian forces have been targeting Crimea since Russia’s illegal annexation in 2014. Ukrainian intelligence claims that nine people were killed and 16 others injured in the attack on the Black Sea Fleet headquarters. The Russian general commanding forces in the region is said to be in an “extremely serious condition.” However, these claims have not been independently verified.
Details of the Attack
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The Ukrainian military revealed that their Air Force carried out 12 strikes on the Black Sea Fleet headquarters, specifically targeting personnel, military equipment, and weapons. They claim to have hit two anti-aircraft missile systems and four Russian artillery units.
Importance of Crimea
Crimea has been crucial in supporting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Sevastopol, the main base of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, has played a significant role in naval operations. As Ukraine’s summer counteroffensive continues in eastern and southern Ukraine, they have been increasingly targeting naval facilities in Crimea.
US Support and Iranian Drones
During a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Joe Biden pledged to provide Ukraine with longer-range ATACMS ballistic missiles. These missiles would enable Ukraine to intensify strikes behind Russian lines while remaining out of firing range themselves. The Ukrainian army also reported that Russia had launched Iranian-made “Shahed” drones on the front lines.
Continued Attacks and Escalation
Military experts argue that Ukraine needs to keep targeting Crimea to weaken Russian morale and army strength. Meanwhile, Russia continues to launch airstrikes and artillery attacks on various regions in Ukraine, resulting in civilian casualties and infrastructural damage.