PUTIN’S ‘Hero of Russia’ has been killed in Kursk just weeks after receiving the top military medal from Vlad.
Marat Tibilov, the commander of the Nation Guard of Russia, was reportedly killed by Ukrainian forces during a combat mission in Kursk.
Tibilov was personally awarded the ‘Hero of Russia’ title by Putin last monthX/@denisvanvliet
youtubeTibilov, second from right, after receiving his award[/caption]
Major Marat Tibilov was killed by Ukraine during fighting in the Kursk regionYouTube
Tibilov – a celebrated figure within Russia’s army – was personally awarded the country’s highest honour by Putin last month.
Vlad noted the officer’s bravery during fighting in the Donbas as he handed out the title.
Tibilov had been fighting for Russia since the first day of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
He was commander of a special forces group known as the Rosgvardiya.
This elite battalion is responsible for internal law enforcement, couter-terrorism and riot control.
There has been fierce fighting in Kursk over the past few weeks as Russia tries to force out Ukraine from the remaining territory they hold.
What is the Hero of Russia?
THE “Hero of Russia” is the highest honorary title awarded by the Russian Federation.
It is bestowed for exception courage and bravery, usually demonstrated during service for the state.
The accolade a recognised by a gold star medal.
The title, established in 1992, can be awarded during a recipient’s lifetime or after death.
As of 2015, it had been awarded about 970 times – so that figure is now likely to be much higher.
Anyone from scientists and soldiers to politicians and officials can receive the award.
Ukraine grabbed the chunk of land off Russia in August 2024, and it is considered a valuable bargaining chip in negotiations.
However, repeated major Russian offensives have now all but removed Ukrainian forces from the region.
Putin personally visited the frontline in Kursk earlier this month to gee up his tired forces.
Moscow ramped up pressure particularly after Trump’s fallout with Zelensky in the White House.
The US temporarily withdrew military aid and halted sharing intelligence with Ukraine, leaving them “blinding”.
Russia sensed it could exploit the moment, so hammered Ukraine’s supply lines with drones and cut bridges into the occupies territory.
Open source maps show the territory controlled by Ukraine has shrunk to less than a third of what they seized in August.
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