Top Russian Navy Officer, Major General Mikhail Gudkov, Killed in Ukrainian Strike

Major General Mikhail Gudkov, Deputy Commander of Russia’s Navy, has been confirmed dead following a missile strike by Ukrainian forces on a Russian command post in the Kursk region. The deadly attack also claimed the lives of ten other Russian servicemen.

The high-ranking military officer, who also led a brigade engaged in combat operations against Ukraine, was killed in Korenevo, Kursk region a location near the Ukrainian border.

His death was confirmed on Thursday, making him one of the most senior Russian military officials to die since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.

The missile strike reportedly targeted a Russian military command post and has been widely reported on Russian and Ukrainian military Telegram channels.

Gudkov was appointed Deputy Commander of the Russian Navy in March and was actively involved in frontline operations despite his senior role.

According to regional governor Oleg Kozhemyako, “When he became Deputy Chief of the Navy, he did not stop personally visiting the positions of our marines. He died fulfilling his duty as an officer.”

Gudkov had previously received military honours for bravery in Ukraine but was also accused of war crimes by Kyiv. At the time of his death, he was leading a brigade of the Pacific Fleet in active conflict along Russia’s western front.

Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine has resulted in several high-profile casualties on both sides. The death of Gudkov is a significant blow to the Russian military’s leadership as the war enters its fourth year with no sign of resolution.

“He died carrying out his duty as an officer,” said Governor Kozhemyako in a statement confirming Gudkov’s death.