In a recent report by VCHK-OGPU, a Telegram news channel known for publishing source-based political and business reports, anonymous sources have listed a staggering number of missing crew members and local dock workers. According to their sources, there are allegedly 57 missing crew members and 16 missing local dock workers.

However, the accuracy of these figures remains uncertain, as Russia rarely acknowledges its military losses during the 22-month-long war in Ukraine. Independent verification of the reported numbers is currently impossible.

Interestingly, this situation of conflicting claims regarding casualties in the Novocherkassk strike bears resemblance to the aftermath of the sinking of Russia's Black Sea flagship, the Moskva, off the Ukrainian coast in April 2022.

Eight days after the Moskva's sinking, the Russian Defense Ministry confirmed only one sailor killed and 27 missing. However, unverified reports suggested that the true toll was likely much higher. In fact, a court in Sevastopol later declared at least 17 of the missing crew members dead.

These incidents highlight the lack of transparency and the challenges faced in obtaining accurate information regarding military casualties in Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. With the government's reluctance to acknowledge and provide clear details about such losses, it becomes increasingly challenging to ascertain the true extent of the human toll.

While the VCHK-OGPU report sheds light on the extent of the missing crew members and local dock workers, it underscores the difficulties faced in verifying their claims independently. The information blackout surrounding casualties continues to cast a shadow of uncertainty over Russia's military operations.

These developments also raise questions about the ongoing suppression of independent journalism within Russia. The Moscow Times, a renowned independent news source with a history spanning over 30 years, has recently been labeled a "foreign agent" by the Russian government. This move has been widely criticized as an attempt to silence the outlet and undermine the integrity of journalism.

The journalists at The Moscow Times, however, refuse to be silenced. Despite the challenges they face, their commitment to providing accurate and unbiased reporting on Russia remains unwavering. They rely on the support of their readers and the public to continue their critical mission.

The Moscow Times has called upon its audience to contribute to their cause, assuring them that even a small contribution can make a significant impact. The support they receive allows for the promotion of open and independent journalism, ensuring that the truth can be shared with the world.

As the search for information regarding the Novocherkassk strike and the sinking of the Moskva continues, the need for objective reporting and independent journalism becomes all the more crucial. It is through the pursuit of truth, transparency, and accountability that a clearer picture of these incidents will emerge.