Kremlin confirms Ukrainian strike on Crimean Bridge, denies damage
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Ukraine had carried out an attack on the Crimean Bridge, but stated that there were no damages resulting from the strike.
Peskov emphasised that Russia is taking precautionary measures based on the nature of the Kyiv authorities and their repeated attacks on civilian infrastructure, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.
The confirmation follows a statement by Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), which reported a new underwater strike on the bridge on June 3. According to the agency, at 4:44 a.m., an underwater section of the bridge support was blown up with the equivalent of 1,100 kilograms of TNT.
The SBU claimed the explosion caused serious structural damage at the seabed level, rendering the targeted section of the bridge in an emergency condition. The agency also said the operation was in preparation for several months and confirmed that there were no civilian casualties.
"The Crimean Bridge is a completely legitimate target, especially since the enemy has used it as a logistical artery to supply its troops. Crimea is Ukraine, and any signs of occupation will receive a firm response from us," stated SBU chief Vasyl Maliuk.
Notably, the Russian side had not previously commented on the SBU's announcement before Peskov's remarks.
Peskov also addressed the June 1 drone attacks on Russian airbases. According to Interfax, he assured reporters that all necessary steps would be taken to investigate the drone strikes on military airfields.
"Undoubtedly, everything needed to uncover this crime will be done," Peskov said.
When asked about reports that Artyom Timofeev, a suspect in the drone attacks, had fled to Kazakhstan, and whether Russia would seek his extradition, Peskov responded: "That is more a matter for our special services, who are conducting the investigation."
By Tamilla Hasanova