UKRAINE killed the deputy commander of Russia’s navy who was plotting a new invasion.
The Hero of Russia, Major General Mikhail Gudkov, 42, was killed in a missile strike in Kursk.
Some 50,000 Russian troops have massed nearby ahead of a feared assault on Sumy.
Gudkov was killed in a command post 11 miles from the Ukrainian border on Wednesday.
It comes hours after claims that America had suspended weapons shipments to Ukraine.
The general, known as a decorated Russian Hero, marks a significant loss for Putin, who had personally appointed him to lead the Marine Infantry.
Gudkov also oversaw all missile and artillery coastal forces, and had specific control of the Pacific Fleet’s key 155th Naval Infantry Brigade.
Reports say Gudkov was killed early on Wednesday in a pinpoint Ukrainian missile strike on Korenevo, in Russia’s Kursk region.
Four out of eight missiles were downed by Russian air defences, but the others squarely hit their marks.
There are indications that Ukraine was working off excellent intelligence about the movements and locations of Putin’s senior commanders.
The strike hit a “forward command post” 11 miles from the border with Ukraine, where the general was meeting with other high-ranking troops.
Numerous “senior officers” were reported to be among roughly a dozen killed in the blitz – though the toll may climb.
Gudkov was suspected to be involved in Putin’s plan for a fresh invasion of the Sumy region – expected in the coming weeks.
Vlad’s forces are likely to target the strategic Sumy city in particular.
Some 50,000 Russians troops are massed at the border – a development Donald Trump said he was watching “very closely” this week.
Obituaries in Russia say Gudkov died with his troops “in combat action”.
On Thursday, flowers were laid for the fallen commander in Vladivostok, the Pacific hub of Putin’s realm, as Russia grieves the loss of one of its promising military figures.
The city is home to the 155th Marine Brigade which has played a key role in Putin’s invasion.
At a meeting in Russian Arctic capital Murmansk in March, Putin promoted Gudkov – who was being hot-housed up the ranks.
Putin told him: “I have made the decision to transfer you to a new position and increase the level of your responsibility.
“You are being appointed Deputy Commander of the Naval Forces of the Russian Federation.”
Gudkov replied: “Aye, Comrade Supreme Commander-in-Chief.”
Back in October 2023, while serving as a Colonel, Gudjov was awarded the Gold Star of the Hero of Russia, along with a pistol, recognizing his “courage, heroism, and adept leadership of subordinate units.”
The award was personally bestowed by then defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.
