The formerly Ukrainian region of Crimea was rocked by massive explosions and fire after an apparent Ukrainian drone strike targeted Russian ammunition stockpiles. Reports indicate that a large Russian ammunition depot in the village of Pervan was hit, resulting in a powerful explosion and widespread destruction.
The attack coincided with the first direct peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine since 2022, held in Istanbul, Turkey, on May 16. Despite initial hopes, the talks ended after just two hours without any agreements. Russia reportedly continued to demand Ukrainian surrender and territorial concessions, despite suffering mounting losses in the ongoing war.
According to the Ukrainian news agency Independence, the drone strike was a clear message from Ukraine as it intensified its counteroffensive. The explosion tore through the air, triggering secondary blasts from artillery shells, bullets, and other military supplies stored at the site. Witnesses described a scene of chaos, with shockwaves shaking the region and thick smoke rising into the sky.
The Russian 126th Infantry Division, stationed in the area, was reportedly affected. Local residents were seen fleeing or in tears due to the intensity of the blast. Fires spread from the main depot to other parts of the surrounding region, including areas near a Russian air base in Belbek and the Kacha region near Sevastopol.
Three additional explosions were reported in other parts of the Crimean Peninsula, suggesting a coordinated assault. Russian military officials acknowledged the attacks but insisted they intercepted four rockets and downed 201 Ukrainian missiles, with 43 of them reportedly targeting airfields.
Despite Russian claims, satellite imagery and local witnesses suggest extensive damage. Ukraine has not officially confirmed the strikes, including an alleged explosion at a sensitive nuclear facility in Crimea.
Observers believe Ukraine's strategic focus on Crimea marks a significant shift in its approach to the war. The Kerch (Crimean) Bridge—an essential supply route connecting mainland Russia to occupied southern Ukraine—is now a possible target. The bridge, built in 2018 under Vladimir Putin’s orders, is considered a vital military asset by Moscow.
Ukrainian intelligence chief General Kyrylo Budanov previously hinted at plans to strike the bridge, describing it as a legitimate military target. Though Ukraine has launched drone and missile attacks in Crimea before, a full-scale invasion has not occurred—likely due to Russia’s strong defensive presence in the region.
Experts argue Ukraine may be avoiding a direct ground assault on Crimea for strategic reasons. Ukraine currently lacks the ground force strength and weaponry necessary for a large-scale invasion, especially with Russian forces heavily concentrated there. Any such move could prompt devastating retaliation from Russia, including airstrikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities.
Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014 following a disputed referendum under then-Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych. Since then, the peninsula has become increasingly militarized, with Russia maintaining a tight grip on the region.
Analysts say the situation remains volatile. Ukraine appears committed to pressuring Russia in Crimea while avoiding the risks of full-scale escalation—at least for now.