UK intelligence: Ukraine has expanded options for striking Crimean Bridge

UK Defence Intelligence, in its latest update on the Russia-Ukraine war dated 27 June, has analysed the recent waves of Ukrainian strikes on Russian-occupied Crimea and concluded that Kyiv has expanded its options for striking the Crimean Bridge.

The update notes that on the night of 19-20 June, Ukraine struck Crimea and the Kerch Strait crossing. Targets included air defence systems, fuel storage facilities and the three vehicle ferries. The disabling of the three ferries has almost certainly worsened the already mounting supply problems in Crimea, UK Defence Intelligence said. Widespread fuel shortages and delays at crossing points are currently being observed.

The update recalls that security protocols introduced after the first Ukrainian attack on the Crimean Bridge in October 2022 mean that lorries may only use the ferries, not the bridge. Only cars, buses and certain types of rail transport use the bridge. In March and April 2026, Ukraine struck the two remaining rail ferries that also supported military logistics. They are almost certainly undergoing repairs.

"Ukraine has been carrying out strikes on Russian military logistics networks in occupied Ukraine with increasing intensity, enabled by the availability of different effectors, including one-way attack drones and stand-off munitions. The breadth of Ukrainian targeting is also degrading Russian air defences even in well-established priority locations like the Kerch Strait," the update states. This expands Ukraine's options to strike the Crimean Bridge, a strategic and politically sensitive target opened by Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin.

In related background, Estonia's Ministry of Defence said earlier that Ukraine's ability to launch long-range strikes has put the Kremlin in a difficult position, as Russia's existing air defence capabilities are insufficient to protect all facilities. US President Donald Trump is reported to have privately advised President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to act "more boldly" towards Russia and expressed being impressed by Kyiv's recent military successes.