The Crimean War of the mid-19th century is largely forgotten today but its impact still resonates, as it provides a fascinating look at the bloody consequences of Great Power meddling in the region.

On October 8, 2022, a truck exploded on the Crimean Bridge, triggering a powerful blast and a large fire. Later, in July 2023, the bridge was attacked again. Two spans were destroyed in that strike.

“The flags of the Russian Federation have been raised at all 193 military installations in Crimea,” said Gerasimov, quoted by the RIA Novosti news agency, adding that flag raising ceremonies ...