Ukrainian Drones Launched Combined Air and Sea Attack on Novorossiysk

A coordinated assault involving both aerial drones and uncrewed naval vessels targeted the city of Novorossiysk. The attack resulted in casualties and significant damage to civilian infrastructure.

Casualties and Damage Report

The drone strikes led to the deaths of two individuals and injuries to at least six others. Three of the injured are in serious condition, while the remaining three sustained moderate injuries. The central district of the city bore the brunt of the attack, with seven buildings, including the “Novorossiysk” hotel, and approximately twenty vehicles suffering damage.

The office of the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) was also impacted. Ilya Arkhipov, head of the CPC press service, confirmed that the attack occurred during business hours. He reported that two consortium employees were wounded, with one sustaining a shrapnel wound, suggesting that some drones may have been equipped with explosive elements. Operations at the CPC administrative office have been temporarily suspended, and personnel have been evacuated.

Expert Analysis of Attack Objectives

Novorossiysk Mayor Andrey Kravchenko stated that the attack by uncrewed naval vessels was successfully repelled. Dmitry Kornev, editor of “Novy Oboronny Zakaz” magazine, offered insights into the probable objectives of the assault. He posited that the primary targets could have included the administrative center for pipeline management, trade infrastructure, or naval vessels. Kornev also suggested the possibility of a terrorist act against civilians, aimed at inducing panic and deterring tourists from the Black Sea coast.

Dmitry Kornev, Editor of “Novy Oboronny Zakaz”:
“The combined attack likely had several aims, including distracting air defense systems. However, in my opinion, none of these objectives were achieved: the drones struck civilian facilities, and the sea drones were destroyed within the harbor.”

Regional Safety Measures and Travel Disruptions

Following the incident, warnings about uncrewed naval vessels were issued in Gelendzhik, leading to a ban on all maritime activities and recommendations for people to evacuate beaches. A similar UAV threat was declared in Anapa. Air traffic in Gelendzhik airport faced temporary restrictions in the morning, and adjustments to flight schedules were anticipated at Krasnodar airport.

This report compiles information regarding the drone attacks on Novorossiysk, their consequences, and expert evaluations.