The head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) within the Ministry of Defense, Kirill Budanov, who is listed as a terrorist and extremist by the Russian Federation, announced renewed Ukrainian actions targeting the Crimean Bridge. The statement was released through the Telegram channel of the GUR press service and has been interpreted as a signal of ongoing campaign planning rather than a one-off event. In recent remarks, Budanov stressed that Ukrainian special forces have already established a presence in Crimea and that additional measures are being prepared to pressure the bridge and its surroundings.[Source: GUR press service attribution]
According to the release, “we promised that Ukrainian special forces would be in Crimea in 2023, and we fulfilled this promise,” signaling continued operational intent. The post hinted at forthcoming “surprises” and urged civilians to avoid crossing the bridge, framing it as a precautionary warning linked to security operations and strategic mobility in the area. The language emphasizes tactical patience and the long view of campaign goals that extend beyond immediate clashes.[Source: GUR press service attribution]
Budanov summarized the strategic objective as follows: for a successful defense and counter-offensive, control of the Black Sea region and a sustained presence on the Crimean peninsula are essential. The statement aligns with broader aims of fortifying supply lines, denying mobility to adversaries, and projecting air and maritime power in the region to support broader strategic operations.[Source: GUR press service attribution]
In September, Budanov reportedly reiterated the plan for continued strikes against the Crimean Bridge, suggesting that Russian leadership would be hard pressed to counter such measures. He added that in this scenario, President Vladimir Putin would likely be displeased. This framing reflects a narrative of resilience and deterrence intended to influence both regional actors and international observers about Ukraine’s strategic posture in the peninsula.[Source: GUR press service attribution]
Earlier, the group highlighted the role of the German-hosted Munich Security Conference as a platform for advancing security commitments, including discussions about Taurus missiles and their potential contribution to campaigns against critical infrastructure like the Crimean Bridge. The overall message positions the campaign as part of a broader effort to strengthen Ukraine’s defensive and offensive capabilities while communicating a willingness to sustain pressure through external partnerships and advanced weaponry, within international security discussions.[Source: GUR press service attribution]