As reported by russian state-backed media, the deputy commander of russian forces in Ukraine, Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, has likely personally taken over command of russia’s Dnipro Grouping of Forces. He replaces Colonel General Oleg Makaevich. The force is responsible for the occupied areas of Kherson region, including the eastern bank of the Dnipro River, the UK Defense Intelligence reports.
Fighting has intensified in this area in recent weeks as Ukrainian forces have contested russian control of the river’s eastern bank. Teplinsky is likely held in high regard by the russian General Staff and has experience commanding operations in the area: he was the officer on the ground in charge of russia’s relatively successful withdrawal from west of the Dnipro in November 2022.
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It is almost certain that repelling Ukrainian attacks across the Dnipro and holding territory in occupied Kherson region remains a high priority objective for russian forces in Ukraine. Teplinsky’s appointment is likely an indication of increased pressure on Russian forces defending the area.
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