Ukraine has accelerated its search for Russian ships, launching a new front around Crimea as part of an expanding military campaign. Ukrainian drone units have been actively targeting Russian vessels in the Black Sea, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Over the past three weeks, these units have attacked more than 180 Russian ships and other maritime targets near Crimea.

The operations, which began in the Sea of Azov, have now extended into the Black Sea, increasing risks for Russia as it maintains control over the Crimean peninsula. The campaign is seen as a crucial effort for Ukraine to regain the initiative in the fifth year of the conflict.

According to the commander of the drone unit known as “Ray,” part of the Magyar Brigade, their team works around the clock, launching UAVs every few minutes. Recently, they reported strikes on a cargo ship, a floating crane in the Black Sea, and an electrical substation in southern Crimea.

These attacks are part of a broader confrontation in strategically important waters, coinciding with Russia's intensified strikes on Ukrainian ports and international shipping vessels. On July 23, Ukraine's Minister of Agriculture noted that shipowners had halted shipments to Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea for agricultural exports due to the rising attacks.

Crimea, which serves as a logistical and military hub for Russian forces, has become a focal point for Ukrainian drone operations as they enhance their strike capabilities. In recent months, Ukrainian forces have targeted extensive road and rail networks connecting Crimea to mainland Russia.

Since Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, following a disputed referendum, Ukraine has consistently opposed Moscow's claims. The recent Ukrainian strikes have led to fuel shortages and emergency declarations in Crimea, with continuous attacks on electrical and gas facilities.

Now, attacks on oil tankers, bulk carriers, and other vessels demonstrate Ukraine's strategy to pressure Russian forces by cutting off their resources. Since the new phase of operations began in July, drone units under the command of Robert “Magyar” Brovdi have been striking approximately six ships daily, complicating Russian maritime operations in the Sea of Azov.

Brovi's forces indicated that the Kerch ferry route connecting eastern Crimea with Russia's Krasnodar region has experienced a 75% drop in traffic. The commander emphasized that these attacks aim to disrupt Russian control and establish complete dominance over Ukraine's maritime territory.

Simultaneously, Russian forces have intensified their attacks on southern Ukraine, particularly targeting the city of Odessa and ports that are crucial for exporting a significant portion of Ukraine's grain through maritime corridors. According to Ukraine's port authority, Russia has conducted 23 attacks on Ukrainian ports and 17 attacks on civilian vessels in the first two weeks of July alone, complicating logistics for traders.

Agricultural exports, including grain and vegetable oil, remain Ukraine's largest source of foreign currency, with over 90% transported from ports in the Odessa region via maritime routes. Russia claims its attacks target military and fuel storage infrastructure in Ukraine.