Additional Coverage:
- Ukraine says it hit one of Russia’s oldest and proudest ships, continuing its rampage against the Black Sea Fleet (newsbreak.com)
In a bold strike that underscores the intensifying maritime conflict in the Black Sea, Ukraine has claimed responsibility for an attack on the Kommuna, Russia’s oldest operational naval vessel, sparking a fire on the historic ship while it was docked in Crimea. Ukrainian military officials have stated the revered vessel, launched over a century ago in 1913, has been rendered unfit for future missions due to the extent of the damage incurred, although a complete assessment is still underway.
The Ukrainian navy’s spokesperson made it clear that the venerable Kommuna, a ship that has held significant historical and operational value for the Russian navy, now stands compromised. On the other side, Russian military sources have countered these claims by asserting that their forces successfully intercepted an anti-ship missile aimed at the Kommuna. Concurrently, circulating footage—yet to be authenticated—depicts plumes of smoke emanating from the vicinity of the vessel’s berth, adding visual credence to Ukraine’s claims of a successful hit.
Since its launch in the early 20th century, the Kommuna has been a stalwart of Russia’s naval might, offering unique salvage and support capabilities indispensable to Russian maritime operations. The attack not only represents a tactical setback but also strikes a symbolic blow to Russian naval heritage and pride.
This incident is part of a continuing trend of Ukrainian operational successes in the Black Sea region, a dynamic that is notably affecting Russian military morale. The timing of this strike is particularly poignant, coming on the heels of the United States’ recent approval of an unprecedented $61 billion military aid package to Ukraine. This development signals a potential escalation in the Black Sea’s strategic importance in the ongoing conflict, with both tangible and psychological impacts on the involved parties.