How Ukraine Is Targeting Russia's Supply Lines: The Kerch Bridge and the 'Novorossiya' Route Under Threat.

Why These Supply Routes Matter

According to Espreso.tv: Military analyst Pavlo Lakiichuk highlights the critical role of supply arteries linking Crimea to southern Ukraine, and the mounting logistical challenges facing Russian forces. The Kerch Bridge serves as the primary corridor between these areas. In addition, the ferry crossing between 'Port Krym' and 'Port Kavkaz' is also used to move military cargo.

To transport these goods, Russian troops rely on landing ships and auxiliary vessels from the Black Sea Fleet. The 'Novorossiya' highway functions as an alternate route skirting the Sea of Azov, passing through key towns and cities, including:

• Taganrog
• Mariupol
• Berdyansk
• Melitopol
• Chonhar
• Perekop

It is worth noting that in 2023, Ukrainian forces struck targets near Chonhar, underscoring the area's strategic importance.

Taking Command of the Supply Lines

On June 6, drone operators from the 3rd Separate Regiment of the Special Operations Forces established aerial control over a section of the Melitopol-Chonhar route, potentially disrupting the flow of military supplies. The following day, June 7, the Chonhar bridge was hit by a 'Begemot' drone, and on June 9, Ukrainian forces struck it again, completely halting traffic. Lakiichuk explains that

“these two arteries converge at a single point—Dzhankoy: either from the south into Dzhankoy from Crimea and onward to southern Ukraine, or from the north into Dzhankoy and toward Crimea.”

He also stresses that supply problems extend beyond fuel and lubricants to include food, which is vital for both civilians and military personnel.

“These are supply issues not only for fuel and lubricants, but also for provisions—needed by both civilians and the military,”

The situation surrounding the supply corridors between Crimea and southern Ukraine underscores the strategic imperative for both sides to control these routes. Successful Ukrainian strikes on key infrastructure like the Chonhar bridge demonstrate Kyiv's growing ability to disrupt enemy logistics—a development that could severely complicate Russian resupply efforts. Amid active hostilities, command over these supply arteries is essential for sustaining military operations and supporting civilian populations in the region.