The Russian warship Askold, located in the city of Kerch in Russian-occupied Crimea, has been significantly damaged by a Ukrainian attack, according to analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). The attack has left the vessel disabled and will likely render it unserviceable for the foreseeable future.
On November 4th, the Ukrainian forces targeted the Russian shipyard in Kerch, causing extensive damage to the Karakurt-class Askold warship. Both Russian and Ukrainian sources released photos on November 7th, displaying the extent of the damage inflicted. The analysts at ISW have confirmed that this damage will hamper the warship’s functionality for an indefinite period.
It is important to note that this attack is part of a broader campaign by Ukrainian forces to disrupt Russian military infrastructure in occupied Crimea. Since June 2023, they have specifically targeted facilities belonging to the Russian Black Sea Fleet in an effort to limit Russia’s ability to use Crimea as a base for their operations in southern Ukraine.
UK Defence Intelligence has expressed concern that a Ukrainian strike on a Russian warship in Kerch could prompt Russia to relocate its fleet even further. This development could have significant implications for the region’s security dynamics.
In conclusion, the Ukrainian attack on the Russian warship Askold in Kerch has inflicted considerable damage, leaving the vessel incapacitated for the foreseeable future. This attack is part of a broader campaign aimed at disrupting Russian military infrastructure in occupied Crimea. The consequences of this incident may lead to further strategic adjustments by Russia in the region.
