Ukraine Strikes Russian Warship in Major Naval Setback for Putin

Ukraine’s military has successfully targeted a Russian warship in the Azov Sea, delivering another significant blow to President Vladimir Putin‘s naval capabilities. On Thursday, special forces from Ukraine’s military intelligence, known as HUR, executed a covert operation against a Russian Buyan-M-class missile ship, which plays a critical role in launching Kalibr cruise missile attacks against Ukrainian positions. This latest strike underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, which has suffered considerable losses since the onset of full-scale hostilities in February 2022.

Since the conflict escalated, approximately one-third of the Black Sea Fleet’s vessels have been either destroyed or severely damaged due to a series of drone and missile strikes. A notable incident was the sinking of the fleet’s flagship, the cruiser Moskva, in April 2022. The persistent Ukrainian assaults have compelled Russian naval commanders to relocate their fleet from Crimea to Novorossiysk, significantly undermining Russia’s maritime control in the Black Sea.

In the most recent operation, the Prymary special forces unit launched drones and missiles at the Russian vessel while it was patrolling near Crimea. The drones effectively damaged the ship’s radar system, leading it to retreat before it could conduct missile strikes against Ukrainian targets. HUR released a video of the attack on social media, which showed dramatic footage of a drone impacting the ship at high speed.

The Buyan-M-class ship is a small but heavily armed corvette designed for operations in shallow waters. It was among the first Russian surface vessels utilized to launch Kalibr missiles during the conflict. On August 21, HUR claimed to have also struck a Russian patrol boat near the occupied town of Zaliznyi Port in Kherson Oblast, resulting in the deaths of five crew members.

As these military engagements continue, Ukraine’s naval situation remains precarious. In a separate incident, Russian forces targeted a Ukrainian vessel in the Danube estuary, resulting in one sailor’s death and several injuries. The attack occurred shortly after midnight, causing the ship to capsize. Ukrainian Navy spokesman Dmitry Pletenchuk confirmed the strike, stating, “We confirm the fact of the strike on the ship, and we are currently dealing with the consequences of the attack.”

The ongoing conflict has not only reshaped naval strategies but has also had profound implications for regional stability. With both sides engaged in escalating hostilities, the situation remains fluid and complex, raising concerns about the potential for further violence in the region. As Ukraine continues to adapt its military tactics, the balance of power in the Black Sea remains uncertain, with crucial implications for both nations.