In southern regions of Ukraine, Russian forces are increasing their activity in the island zone of the Dnieper River, attempting to secure individual islands and expand their presence. This was reported by the spokesperson for the Southern Defense Forces, Vladyslav Voloshyn.
According to him, Russian forces regularly try to land on the islands.
“Over the past day, an attempt was recorded to land on Bilohrudyi Island. A few days ago, Russian forces tried to land on Velykyi Potemkin and Kruhlyk,” Voloshyn noted.
In addition, Russian forces continue assault operations near the Antonivskyi Bridges on Oleksiivskyi Island, he added.
Voloshyn stated that Russian forces are not abandoning attempts to establish themselves in the island zone and are preparing to intensify actions with the arrival of warmer weather.
“With warmer weather, they will attempt to move across the water as well,” he said.
He also emphasized that Russian forces are actively increasing the use of drones for reconnaissance, logistics, and cover. “Russian forces are increasing the number of drone units, crews, and drones themselves,” the spokesperson noted.
According to the Defense Forces’ assessment, this could lead to heightened activity of Russian units in the area.
“We expect Russian forces to act somewhat more actively in the island zone, primarily due to the increase in drone units,” Voloshyn explained.
At the same time, Russian forces are carrying out engineering works on positions on the left bank of the Dnieper and mining channels to prevent actions by Ukraine’s Defense Forces, he added. The spokesperson noted that Russian forces are trying to protect islands where they already have observation posts and positions.
Voloshyn stressed that activity of Russian forces on the Dnieper River is gradually increasing.
“Every day, Russian forces attempt more landings, and activity in this island zone is rising,” he concluded.
