The recent attack on Russia's £120 million Steregushchy-class corvette, the Boykiy, marks a significant blow to Vladimir Putin's regime. This incident highlights the vulnerability of Russian military assets, even in the face of heightened security measures. The vessel, which was previously deployed in the English Channel, was like a 'sitting duck' in Kronstadt, a naval base 700 miles from the nearest Ukrainian territory. This attack comes amidst the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), where Putin aimed to showcase stability despite the ongoing war. The timing is particularly embarrassing for Putin, as his second city, St. Petersburg, was shrouded in noxious black smoke from the Ukrainian strikes. The attack on the Boykiy, a Project 20380 corvette equipped with guided missile weapons, raises questions about the effectiveness of Russia's defenses and the potential impact on its Baltic Fleet. The Ukrainians also targeted the St. Petersburg Oil Terminal, a crucial fuel-export hub, further emphasizing the economic and military strain on Russia. This incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Russia in the war with Ukraine and the potential for further attacks on its military assets. The lack of comment from Russia on the damage to the warship adds to the mystery and speculation surrounding the attack. The attack on the Boykiy is a stark reminder of the risks and vulnerabilities that Russia faces in its military operations, and it will likely have significant implications for the country's defense strategy and international standing.
