Ukraine Plans Major Drone Offensive to Cut Off Russian Supply Routes in Crimea

Stepping Up Drone Strikes on Occupiers' Rear Infrastructure

According to Главком: Ukrainian defense forces are preparing to intensify drone attacks on rear-area targets held by Russian occupiers, aiming to sever supply lines around the temporarily occupied cities of Mariupol, Donetsk, and Crimea. The National Guard of Ukraine is expanding its pool of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) pilots capable of conducting long-range missions far behind the front lines.

National Guard Commander Major General Oleksandr Pivnenko stated,

“We will increase the number of our pilots operating at operational depth and destroy much more of the enemy's logistics.”

Strikes on Facilities in Crimea

In recent days, Ukrainian forces have struck several targets across Crimea, including:

• oil depots
• gas compressor stations
• Pantsir and S-400 air defense systems
• Nebo-U and Kasta radar stations

Pivnenko noted:

“They (the occupiers) also cut our logistics on the front line by 20–30 km-we understand that and are acting accordingly.”

On the night of June 21, explosions were reported in various parts of occupied Crimea, and traffic across the Kerch Bridge was temporarily halted. Ukraine's General Staff also reported strikes on railway bridges near Chongar and Rozdolne.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov emphasized that

“in essence, Crimea is being isolated by drones,”

and predicted that

“in the near future, it looks like Crimea will turn into an island.”

He added that “we are closing the beach season in Crimea,” highlighting the unfavorable conditions for tourists following recent strikes on key infrastructure on the peninsula.

Ukrainian forces continue to systematically target Russian logistics infrastructure around the Kerch Strait, signaling a clear intent to disrupt enemy supply operations in these regions.

These statements from Ukrainian military officials reflect a strategic shift focused on dismantling the enemy's supply networks. Such a campaign could significantly hinder the Russian military's ability to sustain operations in Crimea and the Donbas. At the same time, the isolation of Crimea-as the defense minister warned-could carry both military and socio-economic consequences for the region, particularly for its tourism sector, underscoring a changing dynamic in this strategically vital area.

As Ukraine ramps up its drone operations, the recent special operation targeting key infrastructure in Crimea further illustrates the strategic focus on disrupting Russian supply lines. This coordinated effort not only aims to enhance military effectiveness but also signals a broader initiative to isolate the region from enemy reinforcements.