The russian army is regrouping in southern Ukraine and is likely preparing to intensify its attacks in the coming days, according to Nazar Voloshyn, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Southern Defense Forces. He told Ukrinform that although direct combat is currently limited, the overall situation "remains difficult."
"Over the past day, there were few direct engagements in the Zaporizhzhia region, particularly near Huliaipole and Orikhiv. However, the enemy carried out airstrikes, artillery shelling, and frequent kamikaze drone attacks," Voloshyn reported. "In the Kherson area, also known as the Prydniprovskyi direction, the enemy attempted, but failed, to storm our positions. They also shelled the city of Kherson and nearby settlements on the right bank using artillery and kamikaze drones. So the situation remains quite challenging for us," he added.
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Voloshyn noted that russian forces are currently regrouping, conducting reconnaissance, and strengthening logistical support.
"All indications suggest that the enemy will resume offensive operations in the coming days," he said.
The spokesman also mentioned that russian troops continue their attempts to approach the Antonivskyi Bridges, the narrowest crossing point over the Dnipro River, but Ukrainian Defense Forces are preventing them from advancing.
According to Voloshyn, the enemy is also mining the approaches to the temporarily occupied southern bank of the river, fearing that Ukrainian forces might establish a foothold.
"Unfortunately, the russians are deeply concerned that our Defense Forces could launch an operation similar to the one in Krynky a year and a half ago, and seize a bridgehead on the left bank. That’s why they’re reinforcing several positions where their troops and equipment are concentrated. They’re carrying out engineering work to fortify these locations and have increased measures to secure and defend them. Additionally, they are conducting regular exercises to rehearse repelling potential Ukrainian river crossings," he explained.
He added that several days ago, russian forces reinforced their garrison on the Kinburn and Tendrivska Spits, deploying additional artillery and anti-tank weapons. This move reflects their concern that Ukrainian forces might attempt an amphibious landing and seize control of that area.
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