Ukraine has made claims that its military forces have destroyed a Russian tank landing ship on Wednesday. The incident took place close to the eastern part of the troubled sea of Azov region.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Monday that the Ukrainian navy had destroyed the Russian tank landing ship with an anti-tank guided missile. The ship was reported to have two marines aboard, who have both been captured and are being held in Ukraine’s capital city of Kiev.
The Ukrainian side noted the incident as a powerful signal to Russia, which has increased its presence in the region in recent months. A statement released by the Ukrainian government said that the Russian tank landing ship had been “attempting to provoke armed confrontation.”
The incident has only further escalated the tensions between the two countries as more military forces continue to be deployed towards the region. Earlier this week, Ukraine accused Russia of attempting to “illegally seize” its ships and sailors in the Sea of Azov.
The Ukrainian government has made it clear that Ukrainian combat forces will use all necessary measures in order to protect their country and its rights. The government also stated that it will attempt to de-escalate the situation and find a peaceful solution.
It remains to be seen how this situation will be resolved, but in the meantime, Ukraine has made it clear that its military is prepared to take action if provoked. We will have to wait and see what the next step is for both Russian and Ukrainian forces.