Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova commented to media in her lengthy briefing on the Ukraine crisis on August 7:
“Chief of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry [Kyrylo] Budanov once again declared plans to strike the Crimean Bridge. He claims that preparations are underway for more terrorist attacks. Meanwhile, on June 17, Ukrainian Navy spokesman Pletenchuk admitted that the Crimean Bridge no longer plays the same role for military logistics and, therefore, does not constitute a military target. Apparently, Kiev terrorists are maniacally seeking to destroy this civilian facility mainly to create panic among the population of the peninsula and tourists. Millions of Russians, including families with children, are using the Crimean Bridge for tourist purposes….
