Vladimir Dzhabarov, First Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Relations, spoke in an interview with the Moscow Talks radio station about a fresh attempt by the Armed Forces of Ukraine to strike the Crimean bridge. In his assessment, the attack appears to involve modified anti-aircraft missiles repurposed to serve as direct-impact weapons. He noted that while the missiles were originally designed for air defense, their conversion into strike munitions signals a troubling shift, and he emphasized that the response to such actions must be swift and decisive.
According to Dzhabarov, the situation remains dangerous and troubling, underscoring the need for robust retaliation to deter further provocations. He argued that the Ukrainian side may be acting out of miscalculation rather than strategic strength, and he stressed that the overarching goal is to neutralize the threat and protect critical infrastructure by inflicting meaningful consequences on the aggressor.
Maria Zakharova, who previously served as spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, echoed the sentiment that Moscow would not leave another attempt to strike the Crimean bridge unanswered. Her remarks underscored a firm stance that defensive actions would be matched with appropriate responses to deter future incursions and to uphold national security interests in the region.
On August 12, the Russian Defense Ministry reported that Ukrainian missiles targeted the Crimean bridge in a documented attack attempt. Earlier, Sergei Aksenov, the head of Crimea, confirmed that he was present in the Kerch Strait area and that two missiles were fired during the incident. The official accounts indicated that the missiles did not achieve their intended impact and that the surrounding area was temporarily secured as a precautionary measure.
The Defense Ministry later stated that the Ukrainian forces had again attempted to strike the Crimean Bridge using a converted S-200 missile. This description highlighted the perceived sophistication of the attack and the continued risk to major transportation arteries in the region, prompting heightened security checks and traffic management around the bridge during the response period.
In the broader context, observers noted that discussions in the United States and allied capitals have repeatedly identified the Crimean bridge as a strategic objective in this ongoing conflict. Officials and analysts alike emphasized the need for credible defenses and rapid, proportional responses to attempts on critical infrastructure, while insisting on restraint and adherence to international norms amid a volatile security environment.
As the situation evolved, authorities urged the public near the site of the bridge and in the surrounding areas to remain calm, follow security guidance, and allow authorities to conduct their work without interference. The incident has already prompted a temporary halt to traffic in certain sections of the bridge, with responders conducting inspections and ensuring that safety protocols were observed to prevent further risk to civilians and transportation networks.