Russia’s High-Risk Missions on Dnipro River: Insights from…

Russian forces are conducting high-risk operations to secure territory across the Dnipro River to bolster claims in potential peace negotiations, facing significant casualties. Ukrainian Governor Oleksandr Prokudin mentions continual attempts to cross the river in four areas while highlighting the urgency of the situation amid ongoing talks between the U.S. and Russia. Prokudin also discusses various scenarios regarding the war’s outcome and recent partnerships formed during his visit to the UK.

Ukrainian authorities report that Russian forces are persistently attempting to establish a foothold across the Dnipro River, engaging in high-risk operations that result in significant casualties. According to Oleksandr Prokudin, the governor of the Kherson region, Russian troops are trying to cross the river at four specific locations. Their goal is to claim more territory, potentially to strengthen their position in future peace negotiations.

Prokudin revealed insights from intelligence reports indicating a directive from a Russian deputy commander, insisting that troops must capture the river at any cost, despite reluctance among some soldiers. The governor noted that these soldiers were reportedly told to secure part of the right bank as leverage in negotiations, yet they have not succeeded in this endeavor so far.

The initiation of these missions has resulted in high casualty rates, with many attackers being killed or wounded immediately. Prokudin stated that documents retrieved from Russian soldiers revealed that they included both recent recruits and those with up to two years of combat experience in Ukraine.

Historically, Russia had taken control over the Kherson region early in the conflict but retreated from the west bank in November 2022 due to logistical challenges. In a controversial move, President Vladimir Putin declared the annexation of Kherson and three other regions in the Kremlin, asserting that the inhabitants of these territories would be considered Russian citizens permanently.

Kherson holds strategic significance as it is situated at the mouth of Ukraine’s main river, with its population drastically reduced from 1 million before the war to approximately 155,000 on the Ukrainian-controlled side. The region remains at high risk due to ongoing drone and artillery strikes.

Russia’s territorial ambitions have not diminished, as they pursue land claims before any possible peace talks. Ukraine maintains its stance on not surrendering territory, but the dynamics of the war suggest that reclaiming land through combat is increasingly improbable.

Prokudin explained that Russia’s actions seem aimed at demonstrating their presence on the right bank of the river to substantiate their claims on the entire region. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, especially with potential peace negotiations unfolding in the background, including direct U.S. discussions with Russia.

The Kherson governor pointed out that Russian attacks are occurring at four strategic sites: marshy islands near the river’s mouth, the Antonivka road and rail bridges, and the villages of Lvove and Zmiivka.

Prokudin proposed three scenarios for the war’s outcome: one where a pro-Russian leader in Ukraine cedes territory, another favoring European security guarantees as part of peace talks, and a third likely scenario involving a freeze on the current conflict lines, which could allow Russia to regroup and resupply.

During his visit to the UK, Prokudin signed an economic partnership with Lincolnshire, mirroring the agricultural ties between both regions, while also noting Lincolnshire’s support for Ukrainian refugees amid ongoing hostilities.

The situation on the Dnipro River remains critical, with Russian forces aggressively pursuing strategic advantages despite significant risks. Ukrainian officials emphasize the high casualty rates these missions incur while highlighting the geopolitical stakes involved in potential peace negotiations. The future of Kherson and surrounding areas hangs in the balance, revealing the complexities and dangers inherent in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com