Ukraine’s military has announced the successful sinking of a Russian submarine, Rostov-on-Don, in Sevastopol’s port, Crimea, marking a significant blow to Moscow’s naval capabilities in the occupied peninsula. The General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces reported the attack on Saturday, describing it as part of a series of long-range assaults targeting Russian military assets. Concurrently, Ukrainian forces also struck a Russian airfield and an anti-aircraft missile complex.
The submarine Rostov-on-Don, a Kilo-class diesel-electric vessel of the Black Sea Fleet, was reportedly hit by Ukrainian cruise missiles, causing multiple explosions. Residents in Sevastopol, Simferopol, and Yevpatoria heard blasts around 1:30 a.m. local time on August 2, according to the Telegram channel Crimean Wind. Although satellite imagery post-attack remains inconclusive, local reports suggest damage to a shipyard used by Russia’s fleet.
The alleged attack was celebrated by the Ukrainian defense ministry, which shared a triumphant message on social media, applauding the efforts of their forces. The Russian Defense Ministry has not commented on the incident, and independent verification remains pending.
A russian submarine went to the bottom of the Black Sea.
Ukrainian defense forces successfully attacked the B-237 “Rostov-na-Donu” attack submarine in Sevastopol’s port. As a result of the attack, the submarine sank.
Great work, warriors. The Black Sea fish will enjoy their new… pic.twitter.com/KzbaZATcFR
— Defense of Ukraine (@DefenceU) August 3, 2024
The increase in Ukrainian strikes follows renewed requests for long-range missile support from Western allies, particularly the United States, which has hesitated due to fears of escalating the conflict. The sinking of Rostov-on-Don, if confirmed, would symbolize another significant loss for Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, already suffering from previous setbacks, including the sinking of the missile cruiser Moskva in April 2022.
In addition to the submarine strike, Ukrainian forces targeted the Morozovsk airfield in the Rostov region, reportedly hitting ammunition warehouses and anti-aircraft missile systems.
Morozovsk airfield. Russia.
“Impacts were recorded on ammunition depots, where, in particular, guided aviation bombs were stored.”
Have a good weekend ⭐️ https://t.co/PPLN6xoIAg pic.twitter.com/QdldUmTezd
— Maria Drutska 🇺🇦 (@maria_drutska) August 3, 2024
Russia has controlled Crimea since its annexation in 2014, despite international condemnation. The ongoing conflict has seen Ukraine persistently targeting military assets in the region as part of its broader campaign to reclaim occupied territories.
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