On October 8, a huge explosion wrecked a significant portion of the Crimean Bridge. The bridge, also known as the Kerch Bridge, was the only physical connection between Crimea and mainland Russia. Spanning over 12 miles, the Crimean Bridge was the longest bridge in Europe. It was vital to local commerce, but its significance lies primarily in its image. The enormous bridge was built after Russia’s annexation of Crimea as a demonstration of Russian power. Although the bridge will be repaired rather quickly, the explosion deals a huge blow to Russian morale amidst its war on Ukraine. 

President Vladimir Putin initially ordered the Crimean Bridge after Russia’s invasion of Crimea in 2014. Construction was completed in 2018, and it remains the longest bridge in Europe. The bridge crosses the Kerch Strait to connect Crimea to mainland Russia. Since its construction, it has played an integral role in local commerce and travel.

Before the explosion, the Crimean Bridge was the only link between Russia and Crimea that didn’t pass through Ukraine. Russia now has no direct access to Crimea, a former Ukrainian state whose annexation was controversial and violent. Ukraine hasn’t claimed responsibility for the attack, but videos of the explosion have led experts to believe it could have only been carried out by Ukrainian special forces who rigged a significant amount of explosives under the bridge.

By cutting off one of Russia’s key lines of attack, the explosion has put Russia at a military disadvantage amidst its war on Ukraine. However, these effects are only temporary; reconstruction of the bridge is already underway. In fact, President Putin has promised that the bridge will be fully operational by August 1, 2023. Still, the explosion will remain a huge success for Ukraine. The Crimean Bridge was one of Russia’s prized possessions, as shown by its heavy surveillance and security. By destroying this structure, Ukraine was able to injure Russia’s ego, resist its authority, and attack its power amidst Ukraine’s own fight for independence.