Major General Mikhail Gudkov, deputy commander of the Russian Navy, was killed in action in Kursk Oblast on July 2, 2025. President Vladimir Putin posthumously awarded Gudkov the title of Hero of the Russian Federation for the second time, making him the first person in modern Russian history to receive this honor twice. Gudkov, whose call sign was "Varyag," was recognized for his service despite not being required to fight on the front lines, a role he chose voluntarily. His brigade was reported to have participated in the atrocities committed in Bucha. In addition to the award, Putin honored Gudkov and other fallen soldiers with a minute of silence and announced that a branch of the Nakhimov Naval School in Mariupol will be named after him. A monument to Gudkov is planned to be erected in Kursk. Putin also presented the award to Gudkov's widow, acknowledging his dedication to defending Russia.