Sea of Azov emerges as new front in Russia-Ukraine war amid drone attacks

The Sea of Azov has emerged as a new hotspot in the Russia-Ukraine war after Ukraine intensified drone attacks on Russian shipping in the strategically important waterway.

The attacks have triggered strong reactions from Moscow, with Russia accusing Kyiv of carrying out "terrorist" attacks aimed at disrupting commercial shipping and damaging its economy.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov condemned the strikes, saying Ukraine's actions "go beyond even piracy." He accused Kyiv of targeting ships not for military gains but to spread fear and inflict economic damage. "It is terrorism, pure and simple," Lavrov said.

Ukraine, however, has rejected the allegations. Kyiv argues that it only targets vessels that contribute to Russia's military operations and that civilian cargo ships are not among its targets. It accuses Moscow of using claims of attacks on civilian shipping to justify strikes on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure.

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Why the Sea of Azov matters

The Sea of Azov is a shallow inland sea connected to the Black Sea through the Kerch Strait. It is bordered by southern Russia and Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine, making it strategically important for both countries.

For Russia, the sea serves as a vital route for grain exports, commercial shipping and military logistics. It also provides access to the key Russian port of Rostov-on-Don, one of the country's major export hubs. Any disruption in the area can affect both Russia's military supply lines and its export trade.

Ukraine expands maritime drone campaign

Ukraine has stepped up its maritime drone operations in the Sea of Azov in recent days.

A Reuters report, citing Telegram post of Robert Brovdi- commander of Ukraine's drone forces, said that Ukrainian drones had struck 11 Russian vessels overnight, including five tankers, five dry cargo ships and one tugboat. He also said that a total of 116 vessels had been hit over the previous nine days.

Industry sources quoted by Reuters said several grain-carrying ships were struck on July 13 and July 14, with some vessels catching fire. The reports could not be independently verified.

Why Russia is concerned

Russia is the world's largest wheat exporter, accounting for about one-fifth of global wheat exports. Its grain supplies are crucial for dozens of countries across Africa, West Asia and Asia, making uninterrupted exports important for global food security.

Despite the attacks, Russia's Union of Grain Exporters and Producers said the country would continue to meet all export commitments to its international buyers.

Russian authorities have also sought to reassure farmers as harvesting begins in the southern grain-producing regions. The government said that efforts are underway to minimise logistical disruptions and ensure that the new harvest reaches export markets without major delays.

As Ukraine expands its maritime drone campaign, pressure is growing on one of Russia's most critical transport and export corridors.

The Sea of Azov is increasingly becoming another key front in the war, with both sides seeking to gain an advantage while trying to protect their economic and military interests.