Russia continues to deploy air defense systems to the Crimean Bridge, even using display models. In addition, the Russian forces are constructing a "mysterious structure" on the crossing.
This was reported by the spokesperson for the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Dmytro Pletenchuk, during a telethon.
"They are pulling resources from everywhere. And they are literally packing Crimea very tightly with air defense systems. They are trying to maintain this image of an 'unsinkable aircraft carrier,' as they occasionally call it. So yes, their main goal is, first of all, to keep the possibility of using this stronghold for missile launches and to maintain Crimea as a military base," he said.
Secondly, as the spokesperson noted, the Russians want to continue using Crimea as a logistical chain to supply the southern group of forces.
"Previously, the key role was played by the ferry, but now it's the Crimean Bridge because the ferries are not operational. And even though the bridge cannot fully handle the logistics, the Russians are still trying to protect it as much as possible for obvious reasons. Because it's a symbol, and let's not forget that the Crimean Bridge also serves as an energy link to supply Crimea, not to mention the supply of everyday goods and fuel," he added.
Pletenchuk also mentioned that various air defense systems can be seen on the Crimean Bridge, including display complexes.
Commenting on the construction of the "mysterious structure" on the Kerch crossing, Pletenchuk called it another obstacle.
"It is difficult to understand what exactly Russia is building because the storm season is ahead, and honestly, the structure does not appear to be very solid. But in any case, it's another barrier that could protect against possible drone attacks, or it could be used as a parallel crossing, since they are building it in the form of a bridge. However, I think we might not even see it this season due to the storms," the spokesperson concluded.
