Hague tribunal may order dismantling of contested Crimean Bridge
Ukraine expects the Arbitration Tribunal in The Hague, which is reviewing the case of Russia's violation of the UN Maritime Convention, to require the Russian Federation to dismantle the illegally constructed Kerch Bridge, also known as the Crimean Bridge.
"Russia illegally built this bridge, and now it must remove it to ensure navigation through the Kerch Strait in accordance with international law," stated Ukraine's communiqué.
Kyiv emphasises that it is not enough to tell Russia that it is violating international law, but it is necessary to force Russia to provide guarantees that it will not repeat such violations in the future.
The Kerch Bridge, also known as the Crimean Bridge, is important in the region. It is a symbol of Russia's annexation of Crimea and the arena of conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Russia built this bridge to meet its logistical needs following the annexation of Crimea in 2014, and it was completed in 2018.
Attacks on the bridge and its protection
The Armed Forces of Ukraine have conducted several attacks on the Kerch Bridge. In October 2022, a lorry explosion caused the partial collapse of one of the road bridge sections and a fuel tanker fire on the adjacent railway bridge. Another attack took place in July 2023, when two unmanned surface vehicles damaged the bridge, causing the collapse of a span on one of the road bridge sections and damaging another.
Ukrainians are developing a programme for building explosive unmanned boats, which are used for attacks on the bridge. These actions aim to disrupt military transport and reduce Russia's regional operational capabilities.
Russia prioritizes protecting the Kerch Bridge. To prevent further damage, the Russians are taking various measures, such as building barriers with sunken ferries. Despite these actions, Ukrainians continue their attacks.
