Russia replaces navy chief, Fontanka reports

Reuters could not immediately verify the Fontanka report which said that Moiseev, 61, currently commander of the Northern Fleet, will soon be appointed as naval commander-in-chief on a permanent basis. Fontanka, a private news service based in St Petersburg, did not mention any reason for the appointment.

Russia has appointed Admiral Alexander Moiseev as acting commander-in-chief of the Russian navy, the Fontanka news outlet reported on Sunday, citing unidentified sources. Reuters could not immediately verify the Fontanka report which said that Moiseev, 61, currently commander of the Northern Fleet, will soon be appointed as naval commander-in-chief on a permanent basis.

Fontanka, a private news service based in St Petersburg, did not mention any reason for the appointment. It said the navy's press service redirected its request for a comment to the defence ministry which did not respond to a request for comment. Admiral Nikolai Yevmenov, navy commander-in-chief since May 2019, is still listed in that role on the defence ministry's website.

Ukraine has in recent months stepped up attacks in the Black Sea and on Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. Kyiv has reported a series of strikes, including the sinking of a large landing ship by naval drones in mid-February and a patrol ship this week. Russia has not acknowledged any such losses.

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