The Ukrainian authorities confirmed on Friday that the country's military had scuttled the flagship of its naval fleet, the Hetman Sahaidachny (U130).

They said the warship was flooded in the port of Nikolaev out of necessity and would be restored after the end of Russian military operation in the country.

Media reports on Thursday suggested the frigate was scuttled to prevent capture from Russia after an image circulating on social media showed it sitting half submerged on its side.