Can Russia keep Crimea supplied if Ukraine controls the Chonhar crossing?
Timeline for Chonhar Bridge
Ukraine cuts into Crimea's supply spine
Russia-Ukraine War 2026Background
The Chonhar Bridge crosses the Chonhar Strait connecting mainland Kherson Oblast to occupied Crimea. Originally built in the early 19th century, it carries the M18 Highway and a rail line. It is one of only two overland crossings to Crimea, making it a critical Russian logistics artery after the Kerch Bridge came under repeated Ukrainian attack.
Code 9.2 struck the Chonhar Bridge on 7 June 2026 with Behemoth and FP-2 drones, damaging the bridge deck and forcing supply rerouting via Armyansk (+~130 km). Crimea subsequently rationed petrol to 20 litres per vehicle per week. ISW assessed Ukraine had achieved drone fire control over the adjacent T-22-09 corridor. A second strike closed the bridge again days later.
What happened to the Chonhar Bridge in June 2026?
Where is the Chonhar Bridge and why is it important to Russia?
How did the Chonhar Bridge strike affect Crimea's food and fuel supplies?
Written with AI from Lowdown's published reporting. Not individually reviewed by an editor. Updated 9 June 2026. Editorial standards.