Satellite Images Reveal Construction of Russia's New Black Sea Fleet Base

Construction work has accelerated in recent months on a new Russian naval base in a breakaway region of Georgia, satellite imagery shows, as Moscow contends with Ukraine's persistent and often effective attacks further west in the Black Sea.

"Multiple buildings and perimeter features" are now visible in Abkhazia, with construction activity picking up since the start of 2024, investigative outlet Bellingcat reported on Tuesday.

Newsweek could not independently verify the imagery and has reached out to the Russian Defense Ministry for comment via email.

The region of Abkhazia is internationally recognized as a part of Georgia, but it is controlled by de facto separatist authorities—as is the region of South Ossetia to the east. Moscow has recognized Abkhazia as an independent state, while Tbilisi considers it occupied by Russia. Georgia has broadly hoped to join the European Union, despite Tbilisi's accession plans being put on hold earlier this month.

Abkhazian leader Aslan Bzhania told Russian state outlet Izvestia in 2023 that Moscow would establish a new naval base in Abhkazia, designed to increase the "defense capability" of Russia and the breakaway region.

https://www.newsweek.com/russia-black-sea-fleet-abkhazia-georgia-satellite-images-crimea-ukraine-1931966

ran away from Sevastapol with thgeir tail between their legs

for "breakaway " read russian invaded and stolen