Storms in the Black Sea Damage Russian Defenses Near the Crimean Bridge

Natural forces have disrupted the defensive structures built by Russian forces near the Crimean Bridge. A powerful storm in the Black Sea has rendered many of these barriers non-functional, according to Ukrainian Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk.

During a televised address, Pletenchuk noted that the Kerch Strait is a highly dynamic area. While Russian forces accounted for such challenges by constructing parallel structures, protective systems, and submerged elements, the harsh weather has significantly impacted their effectiveness.

“Many of these structures have failed due to storms this year and are no longer operational. Based on available information, it is evident that nature plays its role,” Pletenchuk stated. He also emphasized that further verification of these observations is required.

The spokesperson added that the storm season in the region is far from over, with severe weather expected to persist for at least two to three more months. This, he suggested, could lead to additional deterioration of the defenses near the bridge.

In his remarks, Pletenchuk described the current condition of these barriers as unsurprising, given the environmental conditions. He also highlighted that, despite the extensive efforts by Russian forces to fortify the area throughout the warmer months, many of these measures appear ineffective.

Meanwhile, Pletenchuk reported a stable situation in the Azov Sea, noting a prolonged absence of enemy vessels. He attributed this to the realization by Russian forces that their ships are within the operational reach of the Ukrainian Navy. In the Black Sea, the Russian fleet’s presence has been reduced to a submarine tasked with guarding a base in Novorossiysk.

Earlier, Russia reinforced the Kerch Bridge in occupied Crimea by deploying additional barges as barriers against Ukrainian naval drones, according to OSINT analyst Brady Africk from the American Enterprise Institute.