06 December 2024
Ben Hodges: The Liberation of Crimea is Key to Ukraine’s Victory
Ben Hodges, the former Commanding General of US Army Europe and now Senior Advisor to Human Rights First, stated in an interview with Hromadske that the de-occupation of Crimea is a decisive factor in establishing a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. According to him, the peninsula’s liberation is crucial to undermining Russia’s military potential and ability to continue the war.
Hodges emphasized that control over Crimea allows Russia to use it as a military and logistical hub. The peninsula has become the base for the Black Sea Fleet and a platform for launching offensive operations against Ukraine. The liberation of Crimea would deprive Russia of key capabilities for sustaining its aggression, significantly weakening its operational capacity in the region.
“Ukraine must do everything within its power to ensure that the Russian Navy and Air Force cannot operate freely on the territory of Crimea,” Hodges remarked.
Hodges also highlighted the importance of F-16 fighter jets that Ukraine is set to receive from its Western allies. While he noted that these aircraft are not a “magic weapon” that will instantly change the war’s course, he stressed their significance in future operations, particularly in isolating Crimea.
Hodges commended the Ukrainian military for its significant progress in reducing Russian influence on the peninsula. The destruction of most ferries used for logistical support has forced Russia to rethink its supply strategies. Additionally, a significant portion of the Black Sea Fleet has withdrawn from Sevastopol, underscoring the effectiveness of Ukraine’s Armed Forces.
One of the remaining key logistical points for Russia is the Crimean Bridge. When asked about the possibility of its destruction using Taurus or ATACMS missiles, Hodges clarified that these weapons are not optimal for dismantling such a heavily engineered structure.
“To destroy this bridge, a well-coordinated operation is required. A single strike is insufficient to neutralize a crossing of this scale. If anyone can bring down this bridge, it’s General Budanov. I am confident the Ukrainian intelligence service is already working on plans to eliminate the Crimean Bridge,” Hodges said.
Hodges concluded that the liberation of Crimea was not only a strategic goal but also a critical milestone in ending the war. Regaining control of the peninsula would strip Russia of key military and logistical advantages while restoring Ukraine’s sovereignty over a region vital to its national security.
For more details, please refer to the full interview with Hromadske.