Ukrainian military strikes Russian Black Sea Fleet in Novorossiysk port
- Ukraine launches missiles and drones at the port of Novorossiysk, where Russia's Black Sea fleet sought refuge.
- Russian Black Sea Fleet minesweeper reportedly destroyed in the attack, according to the Ukrainian military.
- Tensions escalate as Ukraine targets Russian naval assets outside of Crimea.
Ukrainian drones attacked Novorossiysk port, causing a fire and power outages. This happened after previous attacks on Crimea. Novorossiysk is important for Russia's oil exports and naval operations in the Black Sea. The port has become crucial for the Black Sea Fleet after attacks on its traditional HQ in Crimea. The Kirillovskaya substation caught fire, leaving over 20 thousand residents without electricity. Satellite images show fire traces at the sea trade port. Footage on social media showed Ukrainian drones being shot down over the port. The deputy mayor restricted residents from leaving homes, blocked traffic, and suspended public transport. Russia's Ministry of Defense reported shooting down 44 UAVs in the region. In 2023, Russia moved most Black Sea Fleet vessels to Novorossiysk after Ukrainian strikes. Ukraine continues pressuring Russia in Crimea and the Black Sea region. Ukrainian forces destroyed a Russian minesweeper in Crimea. The Russian ministry denied this, claiming to have shot down all missiles. The Black Sea Fleet faced failures, losing Snake Island and warships. Putin sacked the fleet commander and ordered better defense training. Ukrainian attacks intensified, possibly linked to US ammunition resupplies. Reports mentioned missile attacks in Crimea and drone strikes in Novorossiysk. Video showed Russian marines firing at drones and oil refineries being targeted. A Russian military airfield in Krasnodar was also reportedly attacked.