Ukrainian Forces Target Boika Towers in the Black Sea: Strategic Goals and Consequences
Yesterday, Ukrainian military forces carried out a successful operation in the neutral waters of the Black Sea, targeting the so-called ‘Boika towers’—oil drilling platforms located in waters occupied by Russia, historically associated with Ukrainian interests but seized following the annexation of Crimea in 2014.
As a result of the precise attack, the Ukrainian Navy destroyed reconnaissance and surveillance equipment on these platforms, along with elite enemy military personnel.
According to Telegraph, after occupation, Moscow equipped each platform with modern radio-electronic warfare systems and hydroacoustic devices, which enable Russian troops to monitor surface, aerial, and underwater activity in the northwestern part of the Black Sea, specifically between Crimea and Odessa.
This operation forms part of a broader strategy to weaken Russian military and economic capabilities.
For example, on October 1, Ukrainian forces used Neptune cruise missiles to strike two critical energy infrastructure facilities in Russia—the Oryol TPP and the Novobransk electrical substation—suppliers of electricity to enterprises linked with the Russian military-industrial complex.
Experts argue that the increasing number of such attacks signifies Ukraine’s strategic shift aimed at systematically undermining Moscow’s ability to sustain the war effort.
Meanwhile, Russia continues to target Ukraine’s energy sector and slowly advances on land, aiming to occupy nearly 81% of Donetsk region according to ISW data.
In October, Russian forces captured approximately 461 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory, further evidence of Ukraine’s strategic objective to diminish enemy positions.
At the same time, border guards released exclusive footage of battles near Snake Island concerning the control over gas extraction platforms, emphasizing resource security and tactical advantage.
Aviation expert Konstantin Krivolap states that presently, Russians do not feel significant effects from Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil and gas facilities.
This is because civilian sectors remain most affected, while fuel supply to front-line forces remains a priority for Moscow.