Russian forces successfully repelled a Ukrainian attempt to capture the "Crimea-2" offshore drilling rig using naval boats, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense and URA.
Attempted to Seize Platform
The incident occurred in the Black Sea as Ukraine allegedly sought to seize control of the oil platform.
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that the Russian Black Sea Fleet, along with military personnel, sank eight Ukrainian boats and eliminated up to 80 Ukrainian soldiers during the confrontation.
The attack was reportedly part of an effort by Ukrainian forces to seize the drilling platform.
Strategic Importance for Both Sides
According to the Ministry, a total of 14 Willard Sea Force boats — an American-made vessel — were involved in the attempted assault. After eight boats were destroyed, the remaining vessels retreated from the area.
The Crimean oil platform, referred to as "Crimea-2," has strategic importance for both Russia and Ukraine, with the conflict over control of Black Sea resources intensifying in recent months. This incident marks another escalation in the ongoing maritime tensions between the two countries.
The Black Sea has seen an increase in hostilities as Ukrainian forces attempt to disrupt Russian military and energy infrastructure, while Russian forces regularly target Ukrainian vessels operating in the region.
