Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukraine has delivered another significant blow to Russian forces by targeting a gas rig in the Black Sea, reportedly killing 40 soldiers in a devastating explosion.
The rig, which was reportedly packed with “reconnaissance equipment” supporting Russia’s war efforts, was obliterated by the Ukrainian navy, according to Ukrainian media reports.
Dramatic footage captured the moment a massive fireball erupted from the rig, marking the destruction of the Russian headquarters after the strike.
The video also showed subsequent explosions as the gas reserves ignited, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky over the Dnipro River.
Kyiv announced the successful strike on the platform, claiming that up to 40 Russian military personnel were on board at the time of the attack.
Ukrainian officials stated that all those stationed on the rig are believed to have perished in the explosion.
The targeted gas rig was reportedly under Russian control, though it was originally operated by the Ukrainian company Chornomornaftogaz.
Ukrainian forces have been increasingly active in the Black Sea, seeking to reclaim and neutralize key assets used by Russian forces in their ongoing military campaign.
While the specific weapon used in the strike has not been confirmed, it highlights Ukraine’s growing capabilities in conducting precision attacks against Russian military infrastructure.
Russian sources have disputed some details of the attack, claiming that two separate rigs, rather than one, were set alight overnight.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments of the damage and casualties.
In related developments, it was also reported that Ukraine successfully downed a Russian Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopter during the day’s operations.
This attack comes amid reports of increasing frustration from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is reportedly “seething” over the recent Ukrainian blitz that has forced Russian troops to reinforce positions near Kursk.
The strike on the gas rig and other recent Ukrainian advances are seen as a “slap in the face” for Putin, as Russia’s military struggles to maintain its momentum in the conflict.
