In News:

Ukraine has claimed responsibility for a recent underwater explosion that damaged the Kerch Bridge, a critical transport link connecting mainland Russia to occupied Crimea. The attack underscores the strategic importance of the Kerch Strait in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Kerch Strait: Geographical and Strategic Overview

• Location: The Kerch Strait forms the only maritime passage between the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov.
• Geographical Boundaries:
  • West: Kerch Peninsula (Crimea)
  • East: Taman Peninsula (Russia)
• Width: Narrows to 3–5 km at its tightest point near the Chushka Spit.
• Nearby City: Kerch, located on the Crimean side, lies near the strait’s midsection.
• Strategic Importance:
  • A vital shipping lane for transporting goods and military supplies.
  • Gained heightened geopolitical importance after Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014.
  • Frequently features in Russia–Ukraine maritime tensions.

Kerch Strait Bridge (Crimean Bridge)

• Length: 19 km, making it the longest bridge in Europe.
• Completed: In 2018
• Connectivity: Includes dual road and railway tracks, linking the Russian mainland to Crimea.
• Symbolism: Considered a symbol of Russia’s control over Crimea post-2014 annexation.
• Strategic Use: Facilitates military logistics and civilian transit; crucial for sustaining Russian presence in Crimea.