Ukrainian military intelligence reported that a Russian warship, the Sergei Kotov, with an estimated value of $65 million, was sunk in the Black Sea. The Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine disclosed that the vessel was destroyed overnight in a joint operation involving a Ukrainian special unit, the navy, and the Ministry of Digital Transformation.
According to intelligence sources, the attack on the Black Sea Fleet vessel was carried out using Magura V5 drones while it was patrolling the Kerch Strait, resulting in its sinking. It was revealed that Russia had intentions to equip the ship with an antiaircraft missile system.
Footage of the reported attack was shared by Ukraine, showcasing the destruction of the Russian patrol ship. This incident marks another success for Ukraine in the Black Sea, despite not possessing warships of its own. The Sergei Kotov was identified as a patrol ship under Russia's Black Sea Fleet.
Since the commencement of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has been actively targeting Russian ships, causing damage, destruction, or sinking of several vessels. Various methods, including commando raids, missiles, and sea drones, have been employed by Ukraine in these operations.
In a statement made in December, the UK's defense minister indicated that approximately 20% of Russia's Black Sea Fleet had been destroyed over the past four months. In response to the escalating tensions, Russia has relocated a significant number of its vessels from Sevastopol, a key Black Sea port in Crimea, to safer locations further away from Ukraine.
It is noteworthy that Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula in February 2014, a move vehemently opposed by Ukraine, which has consistently expressed its determination to reclaim the region. As a result, Ukraine has initiated strategic attacks on Crimean infrastructure as part of its efforts to challenge Russian control in the area.
