Kyiv, Ukraine – Amid rising tensions between Ukraine and Russia, the Ukrainian Navy reportedly struck a ship in occupied Sevastopol. Dmytro Pletenchuk, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s Navy, confirmed that the vessel targeted was the Kommuna, a salvage ship. Details on the extent of the damage to the Kommuna remain unclear following the incident. This event comes as part of ongoing confrontations between the two countries in the region.
Earlier, Russian proxy official Mikhail Razvozhayev claimed that an anti-ship missile had been “repelled” in Sevastopol and resulted in a small fire that was quickly extinguished. Unverified videos circulating on social media appeared to show a Russian naval vessel on fire, with reports of the Crimea bridge being closed in response.
The Kommuna, which dates back to 1915, holds the distinction of being the oldest ship still in service in the Russian Navy. Sevastopol, home to Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, has been a frequent target of Ukrainian missile and sea drone attacks in recent times.
In efforts to prevent further Ukrainian strikes on the Black Sea fleet, Russian forces in occupied Crimea have been reported to be constructing barriers at the entrance to Sevastopol Bay. Additionally, Russia is bolstering its defenses at the Novorossiysk port, where Moscow had begun relocating its Black Sea fleet from Sevastopol last year, according to the U.K. Defense Ministry.
The ongoing clashes between Ukraine and Russia showcase the volatile situation in the region, with both sides taking measures to protect their interests and assets. The strategic importance of Sevastopol and the Black Sea region continues to fuel tensions, with potential implications for wider geopolitical dynamics. As the situation evolves, further developments are expected to unfold, requiring close attention and monitoring.