(Kerch) – Explosions rocked Russian-occupied Kerch early on December 6, prompting authorities to temporarily close the Kerch Bridge amid reports of drone activity. Residents in the area reported tremors and a bright glow in the southern Arshyntseve neighborhood, with subsequent explosions near the Zatoka shipyard. These incidents highlight the ongoing tensions in Crimea, a key military and logistical base for Russia’s operations in Ukraine.
According to Ukrainian monitoring group Krymsky Veter, the disturbances began around 4 a.m. local time, with residents reporting shaking windows and a visible glow. By 6 a.m., reports indicated the presence of Ukrainian maritime drones in the Kerch Strait. Russian forces launched a multi-pronged response involving sea, land, and air units to counter the alleged threat.
The Kerch Bridge, a strategic link between Russia’s Taman Peninsula and occupied Crimea, was closed to traffic by occupation authorities at 4:17 a.m. It reopened nearly five hours later, at 9:22 a.m. The bridge, constructed by Russia between 2017 and 2020, plays a crucial role in connecting the mainland with Crimea, serving as a vital supply route for military and logistical operations.
Russia’s Defense Ministry issued statements claiming it intercepted several Ukrainian aerial and maritime drones. These included one aerial drone over Crimea and two unmanned boats reportedly targeting the Crimean Peninsula. Additionally, Russian authorities claimed to have intercepted 30 Ukrainian drones in mainland regions, including Voronezh, Kursk, and Belgorod Oblasts. Later reports suggested the destruction of seven more unmanned surface vehicles in the Black Sea.
Ukraine has not commented officially on the alleged drone activity. However, the Kerch Bridge has been a focal point of contention. Earlier this year, Ukraine petitioned the International Tribunal in The Hague, calling for the bridge’s demolition, citing maritime law violations and environmental concerns.
Occupied Crimea remains central to Russia’s military strategy, enabling operations into Ukraine’s southern territories and consolidating forces. The area’s strategic importance makes it a recurring target in the ongoing conflict.
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