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Strait of Hormuz-style crisis looms for Russia as Ukraine forces shutdown of a key waterway
CNN • • world
Key Points:
- Ukraine’s intensified drone strikes have significantly disrupted Russian control over the Sea of Azov, forcing Moscow to suspend traffic through critical waterways and limiting its trade capabilities.
- Ukrainian forces have reportedly hit 116 Russian vessels in nine days, targeting both military and shadow fleet ships, which has led to blockades at the Don-Azov Channel and Kerch Strait.
- The blockade threatens Russia’s grain exports, as about a quarter of its wheat shipments pass through the Sea of Azov, potentially causing billions in economic losses and contributing to rising global wheat prices.
- Russia accuses Ukraine of terrorism for the attacks, while Ukraine maintains it targets only military assets to isolate Russian logistics, especially those supporting Crimea and southern Ukraine.
- The Sea of Azov, historically vital for Russian inland transport of commodities, has shifted from a Russian stronghold to a contested zone, marking a strategic setback for Moscow amid the ongoing conflict.
