The Russian military announced the death of a high-ranking Navy commander, Major Gen. Mikhail Gudkov, during combat operations in a region bordering Ukraine. Gudkov, the deputy commander of Russia’s Navy, had been appointed to his position by President Vladimir Putin in March.
According to the Russian military, Gudkov died on July 2nd during combat operations in a border area of the Kursk region. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear. Unconfirmed reports from Russian and Ukrainian military Telegram channels suggest he was killed in a Ukrainian missile attack.
Prior to his current role, the 42-year-old Gudkov led the 155th Guards Naval Infantry Brigade of the Russian Pacific Fleet. He had also participated in military operations in Russia’s North Caucasus and Syria. As deputy commander, Gudkov oversaw the Russian navy's coastal and land forces, including marine units. His death marks him as one of the most senior military officials to have died during the war against Ukraine.
Ukrainian officials previously accused Gudkov of war crimes, including the execution and beheading of prisoners of war. There was no immediate comment from Ukraine regarding his death. The news of Gudkov's death coincides with a pause in some U.S. weapons shipments to Ukraine, including Patriot missile interceptors and 155 mm artillery shells. This halt was initiated after a review of U.S. munitions stockpiles revealed low reserves.
5 Comments
Habibi
It’s sad that so many live in denial about the atrocities committed by their own military leaders.
ZmeeLove
His death won’t affect the outcome of this war. It’s time for Russia to admit defeat and seek peace.
Muchacho
This is a significant event that shows the real cost of this war. The military hierarchy in Russia is being affected now.
Coccinella
Major Gen. Gudkov’s death highlights the dangers of war, and it’s a stark reminder of how precarious military leadership can be.
Raphael
This is just a smokescreen to distract from the real failures of the Russian military.