Kerch Strait

The Kerch Strait is a narrow, vital waterway connecting the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov, situated between the Crimean Peninsula and mainland Russia. It is approximately 4 to 15 kilometers wide and serves as a key maritime route for commercial ships, military vessels, and local transportation. The strait's strategic location has made it a focal point for geopolitical tensions, especially after Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014. Its control influences regional security, trade, and international relations, emphasizing its importance beyond just a natural passage.