Ukrainian Forces Strike Novorossiysk, Damaging Ships, Air Defenses, and Oil Terminal

Russian Military Assets in Novorossiysk Port Targeted in Overnight Strike

According to Главком: In a coordinated operation on the night of March 2, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) and Defense Forces launched a strike against Russian military installations in the port of Novorossiysk, located in Russia's Krasnodar Krai. The attack, which began after 9:00 PM local time and was carried out using drones, resulted in damage to vessels of the Black Sea Fleet, air defense systems, and an oil terminal. This operation demonstrates Ukraine's growing capability to project force deep into Russian-held territory and target critical infrastructure.

Among the naval vessels hit were:

• The sea minesweeper 'Valentin Pikul'
• The anti-submarine ships 'Yeysk' and 'Kasimov'

The assault resulted in three Russian sailors killed and fourteen others wounded. Key air defense assets were also struck, including a 30N6E2 engagement radar for the S-300PMU-2 'Favorit' missile system and a 'Pantsir-S2' anti-aircraft missile-gun complex.

The attack also severely damaged the 'Sheskharis' oil terminal, where six out of seven oil loading arms were hit. A major fire broke out in the port area following the strike and burned throughout the night. Novorossiysk is a crucial hub for Russian oil exports and a key naval base for the Black Sea Fleet.

The SBU systematically reaches the enemy where he feels safe-in ports, at bases, and deep in the rear. For Russian military facilities, there are no 'safe zones.' As long as Russia wages war against Ukraine, it will find no peace-not at sea, not on land, and not in its own territory.

Informed source in the SBU

This strike on Novorossiysk marks a significant moment in the conflict, showcasing Ukraine's ability to hit strategically vital targets far from the front lines. It underscores the escalating tensions in the Black Sea region and is likely to influence the military calculations of both sides, as Russian forces can no longer assume security even on their own soil, pointing to a protracted and widening conflict.