Ukraine has reportedly struck the Russian frigate Admiral Essen near Russia’s strategically important Novorossiysk naval base in the Black Sea, marking the fourth time the vessel has been targeted since March. The latest attack is part of Kyiv’s ongoing campaign to weaken Russia’s naval capabilities and disrupt military logistics supporting operations in Ukraine.

According to Ukrainian military sources, the strike occurred near a pier at the Novorossiysk naval facility, one of Russia’s most important military ports after the relocation of many Black Sea Fleet assets from Crimea. The Admiral Essen, a guided-missile frigate of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, has played a significant role in launching missile attacks against Ukrainian targets throughout the conflict.

The operation reportedly involved a combination of long-range drones and precision-guided weapons. Ukrainian officials stated that the frigate was among several targets hit during the coordinated attack. In addition to the Admiral Essen, a Project 1239 missile hovercraft was also damaged. The hovercraft class is known for its speed and ability to carry anti-ship missiles, making it a valuable asset for Russia’s naval operations in the Black Sea region.

Beyond military vessels, the strike also targeted energy infrastructure. Ukrainian sources claimed that large oil storage facilities were hit, including what has been described as the largest petroleum reservoir in the Caucasus region. Fires and secondary explosions were reportedly observed following the attack, although the extent of the damage has not been independently verified.

The Novorossiysk naval base has become increasingly important to Russia since repeated Ukrainian attacks forced parts of the Black Sea Fleet to move away from ports in occupied Crimea. By targeting facilities and vessels at Novorossiysk, Ukraine aims to challenge Russia’s ability to operate freely in the Black Sea and maintain supply routes supporting military operations.