The Russian-built bridge over the Kerch Strait faces vulnerability to Ukrainian attacks, having been struck twice since February 2022. Consequently, Russia is exploring safer transportation routes. The Washington Post revealed that in an October email, the state-owned Chinese Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) expressed readiness to undertake complex railway and road projects in Crimea. Another email from Russian businessman Vladimir Kalyuzhny, leading the project, suggests CRCC's preparedness to act as the general contractor for the tunnel construction project. This initiative underscores Russia's commitment to maintaining control over Crimea, annexed in 2014.
However, it exposes China to political and financial risks, including potential Western sanctions, given its non-recognition of Russia's sovereignty claim over Crimea. Chinese communications indicate a preference for secrecy, proposing participation under strict confidentiality and the use of a different legal entity's name on contracts.
According to U.S. officials and engineering experts interviewed by the Washington Post, while technically feasible, a comparable project has never been undertaken in a warzone. The construction, if pursued, is anticipated to span several years and incur costs in the billions of dollars.
