Ukraine has reportedly killed Major General Mikhail Gudkov, the deputy commander of the Russian Navy and former leader of the fierce 155th Naval Infantry Brigade, in a missile strike on a command post in the Kursk region near the Ukrainian border. Russia’s Defence Ministry and regional officials have confirmed his death during combat operations this week. Putin had personally promoted Gudkov in March during a visit to a naval cruiser—recognizing his frontline leadership and awarding him the title Hero of Russia in 2023. Known for his hands-on style, the 42-year-old general was frequently seen visiting frontlines alongside his marines. Gudkov is the most senior Russian naval commander to be killed on the battlefield since the full-scale invasion began. He is...