Recent social media photographs have revealed the extent of damage inflicted by a Ukrainian strike on the Chongar Strait railway bridge, which connects occupied Crimea to Kherson Oblast.
The photos show a precisely blasted hole between the railroad tracks on one of the bridge’s approaches, contradicting earlier claims by Russian-backed officials.
Ukrainian Strike Hits Chongar Strait Bridge Contrary to Russian Claims
Russian authorities state that the bridge was targeted with UK-donated Storm Shadow missiles, but reports suggest at least one missile successfully hit its mark, impacting Russia’s logistical operations.
The new images depict a large crater between the two sets of railroad tracks on the Chongar Strait bridge, with both tracks damaged as a result of the attack.
Russian-installed acting governor Volodymyr Saldo initially downplayed the damage, asserting that all 12 Storm Shadows aimed at the bridge were shot down.
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Ukrainian Strike on Chongar Bridge Tests Russian Forces
However, alternative sources, including the Russian Two Majors Telegram channel, refute Saldo’s claims, confirming that the railway bridge sustained at least one missile strike.
The Chongar Strait bridge’s damage poses significant logistic challenges for Russia, as it is a crucial supply route for its forces defending against the Ukrainian counteroffensive.
Russia relies heavily on railways to move war materiel, and even minor damage can cause disruptions and necessitate rerouting, as evidenced by a previously suspected Storm Shadow strike on the motor vehicle bridge in the region.
The attack on the Chongar Bridge has not only impacted military logistics but also had a psychological effect on the occupying power.
Russian forces now face logistical difficulties and heightened uncertainty, as they strive to maintain operations amid the ongoing conflict.
Additionally, previous attacks on the Kerch Bridge have caused further disruption to road and rail traffic, adding to Russia’s logistic challenges.
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