Russian forces reported intercepting 130 Ukrainian drones during an overnight assault targeting the strategic Tuapse Black Sea port, a vital hub for oil exports and military logistics. This marks one of Kyiv’s most ambitious long-range strikes since the conflict began.
Moscow’s Defense Ministry stated drones were neutralized across multiple regions:
- 85 over Krasnodar Krai
- 30 near Crimea
- 14 over the Azov and Black Seas
Governor Veniamin Kondratyev confirmed structural damage to residential areas from falling debris. Meanwhile, Ukrainian official Andriy Kovalenko emphasized the port’s strategic value:
Tuapse handles 45% of Russia’s Black Sea energy exports, including critical fuel supplies for naval operations. Disrupting this node directly impacts frontline logistics.
The attack coincides with intensified Russian cross-border drone campaigns, with Ukraine claiming interception of 110 out of 177 hostile UAVs overnight. Analysts note both nations increasingly deploy drone warfare to strike high-value infrastructure while conserving artillery.
Tuapse’s dual civilian-military role makes it a recurring flashpoint. The port processes:
- Crude oil and refined products
- Coal and agricultural exports
- Military hardware shipments
This escalation follows Washington’s recent policy shift limiting Ukraine’s access to advanced Western weapons, potentially driving Kyiv toward asymmetric tactics. Security experts warn sustained attacks on Black Sea ports could destabilize global grain markets and energy flows.
