Ukraine has dealt a major blow to Russia’s military with the killing of Maj. Gen. Mikhail Gudkov, deputy commander in chief of the Russian navy, in a strike on a command post in Russia’s Kursk region. The attack, confirmed by Russian officials Thursday, marks one of the most significant losses of a senior Russian officer since the invasion began, as Moscow’s forces continue their summer offensive against Ukraine.

A Major Loss for Russia

Gudkov, who previously led Russia’s 155th Marine Brigade and earned the “Hero of Russia” medal for battlefield command, was killed near Korenevo close to the Ukrainian border. Russian reports said the strike also killed 10 other service members. Gudkov had been appointed deputy navy commander in March by President Vladimir Putin.

Kursk’s border region has seen heavy fighting since Ukraine’s nine-month occupation of parts of the area last year. Though largely retaken by Russian forces, Ukrainian units still control a sliver of territory, keeping the front active.

Kremlin Sees Opportunity in U.S. Aid Freeze

The revelation of Gudkov’s death came as Washington announced a pause in weapons deliveries to Ukraine, including air defense and missile systems. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov welcomed the U.S. move, saying, “The fewer rockets are delivered from abroad to Ukraine, the closer to the end of the military operation.”

Observers say Gudkov’s death could prompt Russia to intensify operations in the border region as both sides brace for a grinding summer of combat.