Today at 19:43
British intelligence highlighted that Ukraine’s successful actions against Russia’s Black Sea Fleet have led to the destruction of about a quarter of its large vessels, including its flagship, and forced the fleet to retreat to the eastern part of the Black Sea. However, the fleet still plays a role in supporting ground operations.
As reported, this is detailed in the UK Ministry of Defence’s update on the Russia-Ukraine war.
Before the full-scale invasion, Russia likely considered the Black Sea Fleet a key component of its strategic naval capabilities. However, over three years of war, the fleet has suffered significant losses due to Ukraine’s successful operations.
At the start of the conflict, the Black Sea Fleet had a significant advantage over the Ukrainian Navy. Since February 24, Ukraine has destroyed or severely damaged about 25% of the major warships Russia deployed in the Black Sea, including sinking the flagship cruiser Moskva, known for its air defense systems.
As a result of Ukraine’s actions, Russia was forced to relocate its key vessels from the historic base in occupied Sevastopol to Novorossiysk, adapting its operations accordingly, according to British intelligence.
“Despite its operations now being limited to the eastern part of the Black Sea, the Russian Black Sea Fleet retains the ability to carry out long-range strikes on Ukrainian territory, supporting ground operations,” the report notes.
In earlier assessments, British intelligence reported that Russia’s average daily personnel losses on the frontlines reached record highs in October.
Additionally, they have observed increasing pressure from Russian forces on Kupiansk in the Kharkiv region.
Read also: Sybiha on cooperation with Trump administration: Ukraine supports “peace through strength” concept
