After massive loss of fleet assets: Russian Navy appoints a new chief

Russian President Vladimir Putin has made significant changes to the leadership of the Russian Navy, marking a strategic shift in the command structure. In a recent decree, Putin appointed Admiral Alexander Moiseyev as the new Navy Commander-in-Chief. Additionally, Vice Admiral Konstantin Kabantsov has taken up the role of Northern Fleet Commander, and Vice Admiral Sergey Pinchuk has been named the Black Sea Fleet Commander, as announced by Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu on Tuesday.

During a conference call with military commanders, Shoigu extended his congratulations to the newly appointed leaders.

"Colleagues, I congratulate you! The immense responsibility you now bear is a testament to your capabilities and dedication. I am confident that you will excel in the tasks set forth by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces, the Defense Ministry, and indeed, the entire country,"

Shoigu expressed, highlighting the significant expectations placed on the new appointees.

Admiral Moiseyev, who has taken over from Admiral Nikolay Yevmenov, is no stranger to high command positions within the Russian Navy. His tenure as Northern Fleet Commander since 2019 has prepared him for his new role as Navy Commander-in-Chief. Moiseyev's naval career is distinguished by a variety of leadership positions, including his previous assignment as the Black Sea Fleet Commander and his role as deputy chief of the Russian General Staff.

The change in leadership comes amid massive Russian losses in Black Sea region to Ukranian oversea and undersea drones. Markedly, the Russian flagship Moskva was among first to be sunk by Ukranian sea drones.