On July 7, as the NATO summit opened, Ukraine targeted supply lines in both Russia and Crimea. Large-scale drones were sent towards Moscow, while fuel transport vessels heading to Crimea were also struck.
According to AFP, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that "more than 430 drones were directed towards the Moscow region from the evening of the previous day until early morning." He added, "Most were neutralized from a distance, and 36 drones that approached Moscow were shot down."
The fuel supply network in Crimea was also attacked. The Ukrainian military stated, "We struck eight Russian 'shadow fleet' tankers in the Sea of Azov with drones." These vessels were identified as transporting fuel to the Russian-occupied Crimea.
The Sea of Azov is a key route connecting Crimea with Russia's southern occupied territories in Ukraine. Ukraine appears to be aiming to disrupt this route to burden Russia's fuel supply.
This attack coincides with discussions at the NATO summit regarding support for Ukraine. President Zelensky emphasized Ukraine's capability to strike Russian rear positions and called for additional military support from allies.
However, the situation on the ground does not appear to be entirely favorable for Ukraine. Russia continues to apply pressure on the eastern front while also conducting airstrikes on Ukrainian rear cities.
According to Ukrainian authorities, Russia launched 68 missiles and 351 attack drones in an assault on Kyiv the previous day. At least 28 civilians were killed in the airstrikes. President Zelensky urged the U.S. and Europe for support in air defense systems, stating, "We lack intercept missiles to counter ballistic missiles."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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