On Wednesday, Russia admitted for the first time that Ukraine has a “presence” on the other side of the Dnieper in southern Ukraine, an area occupied by Russia since the beginning of the large-scale invasion.
This is reported by AFP with reference to the Russian-appointed governor of the Kherson region, Vladimir Saldo.
Just over a year ago, Ukraine took back lands in the Kherson region up to the city of Kherson on the banks of the Dnieper river. There have been several reports in the past of Ukrainian troops crossing the river, but Russia has not previously said that a “presence” was established – that they took up multiple positions.
Governor Vladimir Saldo, appointed by the Russian occupying power, says the “small groups” of Ukrainian soldiers will receive “hell” from Russian artillery.
Zelensky’s right-hand man: Ukraine has gained traction
In recent weeks, contradictory information has come regarding the Dnieper River. Now President Volodymyr Zelenskyi’s chief of staff states for the first time that Ukraine’s military forces have gained a foothold on the eastern bank of the river.
– Against all odds, Ukraine’s defense forces have gained a foothold on the eastern bank of the Dnieper, Andriy Yermak said in a speech to the Hudson Institute think tank in the US, reports The Guardian.
Paasikivi: Very difficult operation
It would open up a new line of attack against Crimea. Volodymyr Zelenskyy describes the success as a key in Ukraine’s war plan. According to him, it is likely that Russia’s heavy losses in the area will undermine Moscow’s plans for a wider war.
Lieutenant Colonel Joakim Paasikivi says it could indicate that Ukraine is preparing for a wider operation against Crimea.
– It seems that both sides are trying to break the deadlock. And it could possibly be a preparation for a larger river crossing, he says.
But according to him, it is a very difficult operation to carry out and requires very careful preparation. Ukraine has already crossed the border on a small scale. Something that caused the Russian forces to direct their efforts there – which could give Ukraine a way over elsewhere.
Creates big worries for Russia
If Ukraine manages to push the Russians out, keep out Russian aircraft with anti-aircraft, and then advance Ukrainian units, they could get over by building a connecting bridge or using bridge parts as ferries.
– Then it would be possible to transfer heavier bandages. But that requires being able to do it relatively undisturbed. It is, for example, easy to shoot a bridge and you need a continuous supply of maintenance, says Joakim Paasikivi.
At the same time, he emphasizes that Ukraine’s successes along the Dnieper cause great concern for the Russian side.
– It is a matter of concern for Russia and it is not out of the question that Ukraine is trying to find something to break the deadlock. And it is also not out of the question that it could happen – but it is dangerous, says Joakim Paasikivi.