A serious setback for Russian pride and military strength in the Black Sea. Nor is this the only casualty sustained by the Black Sea fleet, which has had to contend with a Ukrainian navy that has been severely depleted since the takeover of Crimea and is now largely confined within its ports.
Russia has won a big strategic victory in the Black Sea blockade, which has resulted in Ukraine mining her own borders.
The stagnation at Ukraine's ports has prevented the country from receiving much-needed revenue from exports to the rest of the world, particularly grain, fertiliser, sunflower oil, and other commodities.
The grain agreement made in Istanbul has yet to result in a sailing vessel. After Russia launched a missile attack on the port of Odesa while the ink on the treaty was still wet, this shows how little faith there is in Russia's intentions.
Today Putin has pledged more heavy weapons. Russia's armed forces will soon receive the much-touted Tsirkon hypersonic missile.
This missile has already been test launched, and it will first be installed on the Admiral Gorshkov frigate. The Tsirkon missile systems will be "unparalleled anywhere in the globe," as Putin put it.
The people lining Palace Embankment, though, liked the parade and aerial flyby, so it's unlikely that detail registered with them.
Did you hear the people cheering when Putin came out?" asked Janna, whose loathing of all things British was apparent. I don't think you have such a powerful leader, and I hope you heard me.
She made a hostile gesture with her finger and continued, "I believe that you have pitted us against each other, two fraternal individuals." During your time in Russia, I pray that you come to appreciate the country's unique soul.
Natalia, who was wearing one of the increasingly ubiquitous 'Z' T-shirts, assured me that her team will come out on top. What she meant by triumph was "victory over fascism, over the Nazis, for peace!" when I asked her to clarify. I inquire, "What does the word 'Nazi' imply to you?"
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