Ukraine kills Putin’s pick — top Russian Navy commander dead just days after surprise promotion

Just over three months after being handpicked by Russian president Vladimir Putin for a prestigious role in Moscow’s military leadership, Major General Mikhail Gudkov is now dead, as he was killed in action near Ukraine’s northeastern border in what appears to be a Ukrainian strike, as per a report.

Vladimir Putin’s Deputy Commander-in-Chief Killed Near Ukrainian Border

The 42-year-old, who was serving as the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, died in the Kursk region on July 2 during a reported combat mission close to the Sumy border, according to Russia’s Ministry of Defence and Oleg Kozhemyako, Governor of Russia’s Primorye Territory, as reported by Newsweek. His death, initially reported by Ukrainian media and pro-Russian military bloggers as the result of a HIMARS strike, has now been officially confirmed by Moscow, according to the report.

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A Rapid Rise and a Sudden End

Gudkov had only recently been promoted by Putin to his new role on March 28, 2025, the Institute for the Study of War think tank had pointed out at the time, as per the Newsweek report. He was previously the commander of the 155th Separate Guards Brigade of the Pacific Fleet Naval Infantry, as reported by Newsweek.

The defense ministry shared the news on its Telegram channel about Gudkov's death, saying, "Eternal memory to the hero," as quoted in the report.

Missile Barrages and Blame Games Between Russia and Ukraine

According to the Newsweek report, it is a big step for Ukrainian forces, as they are under intense pressure from Russian advances in the east and the looming threat of a summer offensive, with 50,000 of Moscow's troops gathered near the Sumy border.

This comes after Russia had attacked Ukrainian cities with missiles and drones, which led to dozens of casualties, as per the report. While, Moscow has also accused Ukraine of hitting residential areas, which has led to many deaths and injuries, according to Newsweek.

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Donald Trump Halts Aid, But Hints at More Missiles

However, Ukraine also suffered a major blow recently when the Trump administration removed a planned shipment of weapons following a Pentagon review, as they said that the United States needed to replenish its own stockpiles instead, as reported by Newsweek.

While, the US president Donald Trump had also previously said that he was considering sending more Patriot air defense missiles to Ukraine to support them in defending against Russian strikes, according to the report.

FAQs

Who was Mikhail Gudkov?
He was the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy and a trusted military figure promoted by Putin in March 2025, as per the Newsweek report.

What has Russia said about his death?
Russia's Ministry of Defence honored him on Telegram, calling him a hero and mourning his loss,as per the Newsweek report.