On Tuesday a Ukrainian missile strike on a field headquarters in the Kursk region killed several high ranking Russian officers. The strike led to the elimination of Maj Gen Mikhail Gudkov, a senior officer of the Russian navy. The strike famously killed numerous senior officers, revealing some pretty spectacular holes in Russian military OPSEC. This sad incident highlights the grave danger that persists around the theater of war.
The missile attack occurred approximately 19 miles (30 kilometers) from the front lines and involved at least four missiles striking the base near the village of Korenevo. Analysis of reports indicate that lax security cost Maj Gen Gudkov his job. This lapse was crucial in allowing Ukrainian forces to carry out an operation of this scale and precision.
Maj Gen Gudkov held responsibility for Russia’s marine units and led the 155th marine brigade, a frontline unit that had suffered heavy casualties. The brigade has been reconstituted many times due to attrition. It played a role in the spring 2022 offensive to capture Kyiv and several offensives on the town of Vuhledar earlier this year. In fact, previously the brigade had been re-deployed to stop Ukraine’s advance into Russia’s Kursk province.
Even with such a high post, Maj Gen Gudkov was famous for personally touring the marines’ positions. His leadership had won him praise from President Vladimir Putin, who had promoted him in March. Today the very same unit that he commanded has faced serious allegations of war crimes from Kyiv. These include the unlawful execution of nine Ukrainian prisoners of war.
In response to ongoing military threats, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated, “one way or another, we must ensure protection for our people.” This short comment speaks volumes about Ukraine’s fierce determination to defend its territories. It further addresses the dangers behind high-profile defense bureaucrats such as Gudkov.
The death of Maj Gen Gudkov marks a notable loss for the Russian military command structure, particularly given his involvement in frontline operations. This proves some serious doubts on the Russian military’s operational art. It further celebrates the operational safety of its officers serving at the edge of conflict zones.