According to Ukrainian authorities, a high-ranking admiral in the Russian navy has been killed in a significant missile strike.
Anton Gerashchenko, an advisor in Ukraine's Ministry of Internal Affairs, reported the news on behalf of Ukrainian special forces via social media.
The deceased is Viktor Sokolov, the commander-in-chief of Russia's Black Sea Fleet, headquartered on the Crimean Peninsula.
The British media outlet Sky News reported that the attack on the naval building occurred on the same day. The missiles used in the attack are believed to be long-range cruise missiles, specifically the Storm Shadow missiles.
These missiles are capable of finding their way once launched and detonating 450 kilograms of explosives upon reaching their target. At least one missile reportedly hit the naval base, while several others were allegedly shot down by the Russians.
According to Gerashchenko, Sokolov was one of 34 people killed in the attack, with another 105 injured. The building that was targeted is reportedly beyond repair.
The Kyiv Independent reported that the attack took place last week when Ukrainian missiles targeted the naval headquarters in Sevastopol. It had been rumored that Sokolov had lost his life, but Ukraine has now officially announced it. Russia has not yet confirmed the news.
