Ukrainian Forces Strike Russian Military Targets in Crimea and Donbas in Nighttime Raids.

Ukrainian Defense Forces Operation

According to TSN.ua: In a nighttime operation on February 23, 2026, Ukrainian defense forces conducted a series of strikes against Russian military installations in temporarily occupied territories, including Crimea. Units of the Special Operations Forces' 'Frontal Strike' group carried out the attacks using FP-2 drones, targeting key enemy assets.

The primary objective was a concentration area for a missile division belonging to Russia's 15th Separate Coastal Missile Brigade of the Black Sea Fleet. Additionally, a Russian ammunition depot near the settlement of Nyzhnya Krynka was hit. A strike was also carried out on an enemy logistics and material support warehouse in the Velyka Novosilka area.

Confirmation of the successful strikes has been received, though details on enemy casualties are still being verified. In a separate action, the 'Kaleykino' oil pumping station in Tatarstan was also targeted by drones from Ukraine's Security Service. These coordinated actions demonstrate Ukraine's capacity to conduct deep-strike operations against Russian military and logistical infrastructure.

Ukraine's Strategic Approach

This operation is part of Ukraine's broader strategy to enhance its defensive capabilities and degrade the enemy's military infrastructure. Strikes on occupied territories and energy facilities like oil pumping stations underscore Ukraine's aim to reduce Russia's resource base, which could significantly impact the Kremlin's ability to sustain its military campaign.

Amid the ongoing intense frontline situation, such operations play a crucial role in shaping the regional balance of power and challenging Russian control over occupied areas.