Russia will likely pull its troops from the west bank of the Dnipro River in Kherson and also urged civilians to leave, perhaps signalling a retreat that would be a blow to Russia’s war but Ukraine is cautious.

Russia signals retreat in southern Ukraine but Kyiv fears trap

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (November 4) said that all the civilians should be taken out of Moscow-occupied Kherson region in southern Ukraine, stating that the civilian population "should not suffer" from the shelling. Meanwhile, the Russian army has said that more than 5,000 civilians have been evacuated from the Kherson region of southern Ukraine each day.&nbsp;

The southern region of Kherson was occupied by Moscow in February, but the Ukrainian forces are piling pressure on Russian troops with counterattacks.The Russian troops have been leading evacuations since mid-October.&nbsp;

The fighting in Kherson has become strategically important in the current course of Russia‘s war in Ukraine and losing control of the region would be a big setback for the Russian president.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia signals retreat in southern Ukraine but Kyiv fears trap&nbsp;

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Putin’s comments came as he marked Russia’s Day of National Unity in Red Square in central Moscow. He said: “Now, of course, those living in Kherson should be removed from the zone where the most dangerous (military) action is on.”&nbsp;

He said that the ongoing actions might impact the common people and they should not suffer from the shelling, from the "offensives, counter-offensives" or any other actions connected to the military activities that are underway.&nbsp;

Kirill Stremousov, who is the Russian-appointed deputy governor of Kherson, appealed to civilians to leave the part of the province on the west bank of the Dnipro river. In video messages, he said that Russian forces would likely soon give up the west bank of the Dnipro to Ukraine.&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (November 4) said that all the civilians should be taken out of Moscow-occupied Kherson region in southern Ukraine, stating that the civilian population "should not suffer" from the shelling.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday (November 4) said that all the civilians should be taken out of Moscow-occupied Kherson region in southern Ukraine, stating that the civilian population "should not suffer" from the shelling. Meanwhile, the Russian army has said that more than 5,000 civilians have been evacuated from the Kherson region of southern Ukraine each day. The southern region of Kherson was occupied by Moscow in February, but the Ukrainian forces are piling pressure on Russian troops with counterattacks.The Russian troops have been leading evacuations since mid-October. The fighting in Kherson has become strategically important in the current course of Russia‘s war in Ukraine and losing control of the region would be a big setback for the Russian president. WATCH | Russia signals retreat in southern Ukraine but Kyiv fears trap × Putin’s comments came as he marked Russia’s Day of National Unity in Red Square in central Moscow. He said: “Now, of course, those living in Kherson should be removed from the zone where the most dangerous (military) action is on.” He said that the ongoing actions might impact the common people and they should not suffer from the shelling, from the "offensives, counter-offensives" or any other actions connected to the military activities that are underway. Kirill Stremousov, who is the Russian-appointed deputy governor of Kherson, appealed to civilians to leave the part of the province on the west bank of the Dnipro river. In video messages, he said that Russian forces would likely soon give up the west bank of the Dnipro to Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russia-Ukraine war: Putin says civilians 'should be removed' from Moscow-occupied Kherson

Senior Ukraine military officials claimed that Russia is amassing troops on the right bank of the Dnieper river as both sides seem poised for a key battle for the city of Kherson. 
 
The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces said on Friday (October 28) that Moscow has sent in a contingent of 1,000 recently mobilised soldiers to make up for the massive loss of personnel in the Ukrainian counteroffensive in Kherson region, reports Reuters. 
 
“In order to avoid panic among the personnel, the command of the Russian occupying forces is trying by all means to hide the real losses of servicemen.... There is a strengthening of the enemy group on the right bank of the temporarily occupied territory of the Kherson region with mobilized servicemen numbering up to 1,000 people," the General Staff said in a statement.

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It added that civilians are still being moved from Kherson city on the right bank of the Dnieper onto the left one. 
 
Ukraine has pushed ahead with an offensive to reclaim the Kherson region and its capital of the same name, which Russian forces captured during the first days of the war, and Russian President Vladimir Putin announced its annexation. 
 
Ukrainian forces were surrounding Kherson from the west and attacking Russia’s foothold on the right bank of the Dnieper River.&nbsp;However, tough terrain and bad weather held up the Ukrainian Army’s main advance in Kherson, officials said. 
 
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Kherson, one of four partially occupied provinces that Russia proclaimed to have seized last month, controls the only land route to the Crimean Peninsula that Russia illegally annexed in 2014 and the mouth of the Dnieper that bisects Ukraine. 
 
On Thursday (October 27), Russia-appointed officials in Kherson said that more than 70,000 people have left the city, including members of the Moscow-installed regional administration.

The Ukrainian military claimed on Friday that forces had killed 44 Russian soldiers in the past 24 hours, besides destroying an ammunition depot and a hangar with equipment, but the claim could not be independently verified. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-has-fired-unspecified-ballistic-missile-says-seoul-529034">North Korea fires two short-range ballistic missiles into sea</a> 
 
However, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, said his 23 soldiers were killed and 58 others wounded in a Ukrainian artillery attack this week in Kherson. The comments were unusual as pro-Moscow forces have rarely admitted to major battlefield losses. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Senior Ukraine military officials claimed that Russia is amassing troops on the right bank of the Dnieper river as both sides seem poised for a key battle for the city of Kherson.

Senior Ukraine military officials claimed that Russia is amassing troops on the right bank of the Dnieper river as both sides seem poised for a key battle for the city of Kherson. The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces said on Friday (October 28) that Moscow has sent in a contingent of 1,000 recently mobilised soldiers to make up for the massive loss of personnel in the Ukrainian counteroffensive in Kherson region, reports Reuters. “In order to avoid panic among the personnel, the command of the Russian occupying forces is trying by all means to hide the real losses of servicemen.... There is a strengthening of the enemy group on the right bank of the temporarily occupied territory of the Kherson region with mobilized servicemen numbering up to 1,000 people," the General Staff said in a statement. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow warns it may target Western satellites helping Ukraine in battle It added that civilians are still being moved from Kherson city on the right bank of the Dnieper onto the left one. Ukraine has pushed ahead with an offensive to reclaim the Kherson region and its capital of the same name, which Russian forces captured during the first days of the war, and Russian President Vladimir Putin announced its annexation. Ukrainian forces were surrounding Kherson from the west and attacking Russia’s foothold on the right bank of the Dnieper River. However, tough terrain and bad weather held up the Ukrainian Army’s main advance in Kherson, officials said. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky claims Moscow ordered some 2,000 drones from Iran Kherson, one of four partially occupied provinces that Russia proclaimed to have seized last month, controls the only land route to the Crimean Peninsula that Russia illegally annexed in 2014 and the mouth of the Dnieper that bisects Ukraine. On Thursday (October 27), Russia-appointed officials in Kherson said that more than 70,000 people have left the city, including members of the Moscow-installed regional administration. The Ukrainian military claimed on Friday that forces had killed 44 Russian soldiers in the past 24 hours, besides destroying an ammunition depot and a hangar with equipment, but the claim could not be independently verified. ALSO READ | North Korea fires two short-range ballistic missiles into sea However, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, said his 23 soldiers were killed and 58 others wounded in a Ukrainian artillery attack this week in Kherson. The comments were unusual as pro-Moscow forces have rarely admitted to major battlefield losses. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Ukraine: Moscow has sent 1,000 troops as reinforcement as fighting intensifies in Kherson

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
 
The evacuation of civilians from the Kherson region amid a Ukrainian counter-offensive has been completed, said Sergei Aksyonov, the head of Moscow-annexed Crimea, after he visited the region with President Vladimir Putin's first deputy chief of staff, Sergei Kiriyenko. 
“The work to organise residents leaving the left side of the Dnipro (river) to safe regions of Russia is completed,” Sergei Aksyonov, the Moscow-appointed head of Crimea, said on Telegram late on Thursday. 
 
Moscow’s occupational authorities in the southern Ukrainian region had urged residents to cross to the right bank of the Dnipro River as Ukrainian forces started making gains in the south. 
 
Kyiv compares this civilian evacuation from Kherson to Soviet-like “deportations" of its people. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-moscow-has-sent-1000-troops-as-reinforcement-as-fighting-intensifies-in-kherson-529171">Ukraine: Moscow has sent 1,000 troops as reinforcement as fighting intensifies in Kherson</a> 
 
“The crossing (of the Dnipro) is empty!" Aksyonov said.&nbsp; 
 
He also posted photos of himself and other officials, including Kiriyenko, on a riverbank. 
A Russian-installed official in Kherson, Vladimir Saldo, had said on Wednesday that at least 70,000 people have left their homes in the Kherson region in a week, reports AFP. 
 
Ukrainian military officers, however, claimed on Friday that Moscow’s “so-called evacuation" is continuing. 
The AFP report cited the officials as saying&nbsp;that the Russian command in Kherson is trying to “hide the real losses of servicemen” in order to avoid panic. 
 
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In a sign of Moscow suffering heavy losses, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov said late on Thursday that 23 of his fighters were killed in battles around Kherson this week and dozens more wounded. 
 
“At the beginning of this week, one of the Chechen units was shelled in the Kherson region,” Kadyrov, who has sent his militia to fight alongside the Kremlin’s forces, said on Telegram. 
“23 soldiers were killed and 58 wounded,” he said. 
 
The Kremlin ally rarely reveals defeats but admitted that losses were “big on that day”. 
Moscow’s forces have vowed to turn Kherson into a “fortress” and not surrender the city, which they took over early in their offensive in March. 
 
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Aksyonov said that he and Kiriyenko also visited the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant — Europe’s largest atomic facility — further north on the Dnipro River in Russian-occupied territory. 
He said they met with the staff and assessed the general situation in the plant and area. 
 
Ukraine accuses Moscow’s forces of “kidnapping” the plant’s staff and said last week that around 50 employees are held in “captivity". 
Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of shelling the plant, sparking fears of a nuclear disaster.

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The evacuation of civilians from the Kherson region amid a Ukrainian counter-offensive has been completed, said Sergei Aksyonov, the head of Moscow-annexed Crimea, after he visited the region with President Vladimir Putin's first deputy chief of staff, Sergei Kiriyenko. “The work to organise residents leaving the left side of the Dnipro (river) to safe regions of Russia is completed,” Sergei Aksyonov, the Moscow-appointed head of Crimea, said on Telegram late on Thursday. Moscow’s occupational authorities in the southern Ukrainian region had urged residents to cross to the right bank of the Dnipro River as Ukrainian forces started making gains in the south. Kyiv compares this civilian evacuation from Kherson to Soviet-like “deportations" of its people. ALSO READ | Ukraine: Moscow has sent 1,000 troops as reinforcement as fighting intensifies in Kherson “The crossing (of the Dnipro) is empty!" Aksyonov said. He also posted photos of himself and other officials, including Kiriyenko, on a riverbank. A Russian-installed official in Kherson, Vladimir Saldo, had said on Wednesday that at least 70,000 people have left their homes in the Kherson region in a week, reports AFP. Ukrainian military officers, however, claimed on Friday that Moscow’s “so-called evacuation" is continuing. The AFP report cited the officials as saying that the Russian command in Kherson is trying to “hide the real losses of servicemen” in order to avoid panic. ALSO READ | North Korea fires two short-range ballistic missiles into sea In a sign of Moscow suffering heavy losses, Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov said late on Thursday that 23 of his fighters were killed in battles around Kherson this week and dozens more wounded. “At the beginning of this week, one of the Chechen units was shelled in the Kherson region,” Kadyrov, who has sent his militia to fight alongside the Kremlin’s forces, said on Telegram. “23 soldiers were killed and 58 wounded,” he said. The Kremlin ally rarely reveals defeats but admitted that losses were “big on that day”. Moscow’s forces have vowed to turn Kherson into a “fortress” and not surrender the city, which they took over early in their offensive in March. ALSO READ | What is the origin of the COVID-19 virus? New report supports ‘Lab Leak’ theory Aksyonov said that he and Kiriyenko also visited the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant — Europe’s largest atomic facility — further north on the Dnipro River in Russian-occupied territory. He said they met with the staff and assessed the general situation in the plant and area. Ukraine accuses Moscow’s forces of “kidnapping” the plant’s staff and said last week that around 50 employees are held in “captivity". Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of shelling the plant, sparking fears of a nuclear disaster. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Civilian evacuation ‘complete’ in Kherson: Crimea’s Moscow-appointed head

The Pentagon said on Thursday that Russia's invasion of Ukraine highlights the "acute threat" posed by Moscow, but China is the most consequential challenge for the United States.

The U.S. warns of acute threats from Russia as battle looms over the Kherson region

The crucial southern province of Kherson, which is partially under Russian control, will see "the heaviest of battles," according to a senior Ukrainian official, who also said that Moscow's military is fortifying itself to stave off advancing Ukrainian soldiers.&nbsp;

The largest metropolitan centre Russia still controls since conquering it early in the invasion of Ukraine eight months ago is Kherson, the region's principal city and river port, which had a pre-war population of roughly 280,000.&nbsp;

Since early October, when Russia claimed to have annexed Kherson and three other provinces—a move denounced by 143 nations at the UN as an "attempted illegal annexation"—Ukrainian forces do not seem to have made much progress in their counteroffensive in Kherson.

"With Kherson everything is clear. The Russians are replenishing, strengthening their grouping there," in a video posted online on Tuesday night, Oleksiy Arestovych, a counsellor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, made a statement.&nbsp;

"It means that nobody is preparing to withdraw. On the contrary, the heaviest of battles is going to take place for Kherson, "Arestovych, who did not specify when the conflict would take place, said.&nbsp;

Kherson is undoubtedly the most crucial province in terms of strategy out of the four that Russian President Vladimir Putin declared to have been annexed. Both the mouth of the massive river that divides Ukraine, the Dnipro and the single land access point to the Crimean peninsula that Russia annexed in 2014 are under its authority.

Thousands of citizens have been evacuated by boat to the eastern bank of the Dnipro from the west bank of the city of Kherson, which is administered by a Russian-backed government, after receiving televised warnings that Ukrainian forces were ready to attack the city.&nbsp;

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Artillery battles continued all day Tuesday in the Mykolaiv region to the north and west of Kherson city, according to a post from the frontlines on Rybar, a pro-Russian channel on the Telegram messaging app.&nbsp;

Ukrainian soldiers attempted to strengthen their positions in the Ishchenka district, north of Kherson, but were pushed back to earlier lines, according to the report. According to it, the Ukrainian military was getting ready to advance the entire lines.&nbsp;

One of Russia's major failures in the conflict would be a loss in Kherson.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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The crucial southern province of Kherson, which is partially under Russian control, will see "the heaviest of battles," according to a senior Ukrainian official, who also said that Moscow's military is fortifying itself to stave off advancing Ukrainian soldiers.

The crucial southern province of Kherson, which is partially under Russian control, will see "the heaviest of battles," according to a senior Ukrainian official, who also said that Moscow's military is fortifying itself to stave off advancing Ukrainian soldiers. The largest metropolitan centre Russia still controls since conquering it early in the invasion of Ukraine eight months ago is Kherson, the region's principal city and river port, which had a pre-war population of roughly 280,000. Since early October, when Russia claimed to have annexed Kherson and three other provinces—a move denounced by 143 nations at the UN as an "attempted illegal annexation"—Ukrainian forces do not seem to have made much progress in their counteroffensive in Kherson. "With Kherson everything is clear. The Russians are replenishing, strengthening their grouping there," in a video posted online on Tuesday night, Oleksiy Arestovych, a counsellor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, made a statement. "It means that nobody is preparing to withdraw. On the contrary, the heaviest of battles is going to take place for Kherson, "Arestovych, who did not specify when the conflict would take place, said. Kherson is undoubtedly the most crucial province in terms of strategy out of the four that Russian President Vladimir Putin declared to have been annexed. Both the mouth of the massive river that divides Ukraine, the Dnipro and the single land access point to the Crimean peninsula that Russia annexed in 2014 are under its authority. Thousands of citizens have been evacuated by boat to the eastern bank of the Dnipro from the west bank of the city of Kherson, which is administered by a Russian-backed government, after receiving televised warnings that Ukrainian forces were ready to attack the city. Also Read: What is a 'dirty bomb'? Russia claims Ukraine plotting detonation of dirty bomb Artillery battles continued all day Tuesday in the Mykolaiv region to the north and west of Kherson city, according to a post from the frontlines on Rybar, a pro-Russian channel on the Telegram messaging app. Ukrainian soldiers attempted to strengthen their positions in the Ishchenka district, north of Kherson, but were pushed back to earlier lines, according to the report. According to it, the Ukrainian military was getting ready to advance the entire lines. One of Russia's major failures in the conflict would be a loss in Kherson. (with inputs from agencies)

Kherson to be ground for 'heaviest of battles' between Russia and Ukraine

The Russian-occupied Kherson region in Ukraine is going to witness an intense battle in the future as Moscow is preparing to send more forces to the southern city in response to Ukraine’s counteroffensive.

Kherson was the first territory that fell to the Russian forces in the initial days of the war that started in February this year.

But in the past few weeks, Ukraine has been making rapid advances in the southern city, especially along the Dnipro River, and has caused the Russian forces to retreat.

The Russian-installed authorities in the city have even ordered thousands of civilians to evacuate.

However, Ukraine's military spy chief Kyrylo Budanov believes that the Russian forces have not retreated rather they are trying to create an illusion of defeat.

"They are creating the illusion that all is lost. Yet at the same time they are moving new military units in and preparing to defend the streets of Kherson," he told the Ukrainska Pravda online media outlet.

He said that the Russian military is deploying more troops and preparing the streets for defence, adding that the removal of citizens is a pretence to save face in case the city falls to Ukraine.

The Russian-appointed officials in Kherson on Monday announced the creation of militia units, saying that men would have the "opportunity" to join them.

The focus of the Ukraine-Russia war has now shifted to Kherson, with Kyiv claiming massive success in the region since October.

According to its military, the Ukrainian forces have reclaimed about 90 villages, with a population totalling 12,000.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Russian-occupied Kherson region in Ukraine is going to witness an intense battle in the future as Moscow is preparing to send more forces to the southern city in response to Ukraine’s counteroffensive.

The Russian-occupied Kherson region in Ukraine is going to witness an intense battle in the future as Moscow is preparing to send more forces to the southern city in response to Ukraine’s counteroffensive. Kherson was the first territory that fell to the Russian forces in the initial days of the war that started in February this year. But in the past few weeks, Ukraine has been making rapid advances in the southern city, especially along the Dnipro River, and has caused the Russian forces to retreat. The Russian-installed authorities in the city have even ordered thousands of civilians to evacuate. However, Ukraine's military spy chief Kyrylo Budanov believes that the Russian forces have not retreated rather they are trying to create an illusion of defeat. "They are creating the illusion that all is lost. Yet at the same time they are moving new military units in and preparing to defend the streets of Kherson," he told the Ukrainska Pravda online media outlet. He said that the Russian military is deploying more troops and preparing the streets for defence, adding that the removal of citizens is a pretence to save face in case the city falls to Ukraine. The Russian-appointed officials in Kherson on Monday announced the creation of militia units, saying that men would have the "opportunity" to join them. The focus of the Ukraine-Russia war has now shifted to Kherson, with Kyiv claiming massive success in the region since October. According to its military, the Ukrainian forces have reclaimed about 90 villages, with a population totalling 12,000. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia to send more troops to defend Kherson, says Ukraine’s intel chief

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

The Ukrainian government said on Friday that its defence forces were able to recapture 88 towns and villages in the Kherson region. The announcement marked a huge achievement for Ukraine as Kherson was one of the four regions that Russia had “annexed” through the series of referendums.&nbsp;

"Kherson region: 88 settlements de-occupied," Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the Ukrainian president's office, said on Telegram according to a report by Reuters.&nbsp;

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The Ukrainian military was able to de-occupy 551 settlements in the Kharkiv region and as many as 1685 war crimes were registered against the Russian forces. &nbsp;

Tymoshenko took to social media to inform that the government was finally able to provide aid to the people in the Beryslav district and power was restored in several parts of the country.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Russian defence ministry said that a journalist was killed, and 10 others were injured as Ukraine attacked a bridge in the Kherson region on Friday.&nbsp;

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"Out of the journalists 10 were injured, one was killed," the statement read according to AFP.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the European Union will be providing Ukraine with $17.6 million in financial aid over the next year. The announcement was made after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the ongoing crisis can result in a massive economic crisis and refugee exodus in the country.&nbsp;

“Ukraine is telling us that they need approximately 3-4 billion euros per month to have enough resources for the basics,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said. &nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The Ukrainian government said on Friday that its defence forces were able to recapture 88 towns and villages in the Kherson region. The announcement marked a huge achievement for Ukraine as Kherson was one of the four regions that Russia had “annexed” through the series of referendums. "Kherson region: 88 settlements de-occupied," Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the Ukrainian president's office, said on Telegram according to a report by Reuters. Also read | UK Politics LIVE: Sunak leads race to become new PM, Mordaunt to compete The Ukrainian military was able to de-occupy 551 settlements in the Kharkiv region and as many as 1685 war crimes were registered against the Russian forces. Tymoshenko took to social media to inform that the government was finally able to provide aid to the people in the Beryslav district and power was restored in several parts of the country. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Russian defence ministry said that a journalist was killed, and 10 others were injured as Ukraine attacked a bridge in the Kherson region on Friday. Also read | Pakistan poll panel bars Imran Khan from running for public office for 5 years "Out of the journalists 10 were injured, one was killed," the statement read according to AFP. Meanwhile, the European Union will be providing Ukraine with $17.6 million in financial aid over the next year. The announcement was made after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the ongoing crisis can result in a massive economic crisis and refugee exodus in the country. “Ukraine is telling us that they need approximately 3-4 billion euros per month to have enough resources for the basics,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.

88 towns and villages in Kherson region recaptured by our military, claims Ukraine

Russia's new commander for the war in Ukraine has made an admission. He said the situation in the Kherson region has become "very difficult" for the Russian Forces. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Russian war commander makes big admission

Russian installed officials in the occupied Ukrainian city of Kherson are preparing to defend it from an imminent Ukrainian attack. They've also urged civilians to flee as soon as possible.

Russia's men in Kherson tell civilians to flee

In one of the biggest signs of Russia losing grip on territory in Ukraine, the Russian-installed governor of southern Kherson region suggested residents leave for Russian regions. He has advised that the resident take their children. As per Russia's TASS news agency, first group of civilians escaping from Kherson will arrive in Russia's Rostov region by Friday&nbsp;

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After initial months of gaining territory, the Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of&nbsp;counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian forces have recaptured swathes of territory including those Russia claimed were annexed and would remain Russian 'forever'.&nbsp;

"Every day, the cities of Kherson region are subjected to missile attacks," Russian-installed Kherson administration chief Vladimir Saldo said in a video message.

"As such, the leadership of Kherson administration has decided to provide Kherson families with the option to travel to other regions of the Russian Federation to rest and study," he said.

"We suggested that all residents of the Kherson region, if they wish, to protect themselves from the consequences of missile strikes, ... go to other regions," he said. People should "leave with their children".

The prompt to go applied foremost to residents on the west bank of the Dnipro River, he said. That includes the regional capital, the only major Ukrainian city Russia has captured intact since invading in February.

Russia has claimed that it has annexed Kherson region. The region is strategically important. It controls land route to Crimea as well as mouth of the Dnipro river. Russia has annexed Crimea in 2014.

Since the start of October, Ukrainian forces have burst through Russia's front lines there in their biggest advance in the south since the war began. They have since been advancing rapidly along the west bank, aiming to cut off thousands of Russian troops from supply lines and potential escape routes across it.

Russia has concentrated many of its best-trained troops to defend its grip on Kherson's west bank. But that force can only be supplied across the river, which is several kilometres wide and has few crossings.

(With inputs from agencies)

In one of the biggest signs of Russia losing grip on territory in Ukraine, the Russian-installed governor of southern Kherson region suggested residents leave for Russian regions.

In one of the biggest signs of Russia losing grip on territory in Ukraine, the Russian-installed governor of southern Kherson region suggested residents leave for Russian regions. He has advised that the resident take their children. As per Russia's TASS news agency, first group of civilians escaping from Kherson will arrive in Russia's Rostov region by Friday Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24 this year. After initial months of gaining territory, the Russian forces have had to retreat in the face of counteroffensive by Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian forces have recaptured swathes of territory including those Russia claimed were annexed and would remain Russian 'forever'. "Every day, the cities of Kherson region are subjected to missile attacks," Russian-installed Kherson administration chief Vladimir Saldo said in a video message. "As such, the leadership of Kherson administration has decided to provide Kherson families with the option to travel to other regions of the Russian Federation to rest and study," he said. "We suggested that all residents of the Kherson region, if they wish, to protect themselves from the consequences of missile strikes, ... go to other regions," he said. People should "leave with their children". The prompt to go applied foremost to residents on the west bank of the Dnipro River, he said. That includes the regional capital, the only major Ukrainian city Russia has captured intact since invading in February. Russia has claimed that it has annexed Kherson region. The region is strategically important. It controls land route to Crimea as well as mouth of the Dnipro river. Russia has annexed Crimea in 2014. Since the start of October, Ukrainian forces have burst through Russia's front lines there in their biggest advance in the south since the war began. They have since been advancing rapidly along the west bank, aiming to cut off thousands of Russian troops from supply lines and potential escape routes across it. Russia has concentrated many of its best-trained troops to defend its grip on Kherson's west bank. But that force can only be supplied across the river, which is several kilometres wide and has few crossings. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia begins evacuation of civilians from Kherson in Ukraine

Ukraine has claimed that its forces recaptured five settlements in the southern annexed Kherson region during the ongoing counteroffensive against the Russian forces.

According to southern command speaker Vladislav Nazarov, the five villages that were taken on October 11 are&nbsp;Novovasylivka, Novohryhorivka, Nova Kamianka, Tryfonivka and Chervone in the Beryslav district.

"Ukrainian armed forces have liberated five more settlements in Beryslav district (of&nbsp; Kherson&nbsp;region): Novovasylivka, Novogrygorivka, Nova Kamyanka, Tryfonivka, Chervone," Ukraine President’s office said in its daily report, according to AFP news agency.

The report said that Russian forces were striking back and continuously shelling Ukraine's positions "along the entire contact line".&nbsp;

Kherson was among the first cities to be taken by Russian forces since the invasion of Ukraine in February.

In late August, the Ukrainian army launched its counteroffensive in the southern part of the country.&nbsp;

Currently, the Russian forces are in control of three more Ukrainian regions, apart from Kherson.

Apart from the south, the Ukrainian forces claimed to have gained significant advances in the eastern front as well, and regained almost full control of the northeastern region of Kharkiv.

Meanwhile, Russia continues to pummel Ukraine with missile strikes, damaging energy sites across the country.

President Vladimir Putin said that they were retaliating against the Crimea bridge explosion that reportedly killed four people.

On Wednesday, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) detained eight suspects, including five Russian citizens, and three citizens of Ukraine and Armenia, &nbsp;over the blast.

In a press release, the FSB&nbsp;blamed Ukraine’s military intelligence for the attack.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has neither confirmed nor denied its role in the Kerch Bridge attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine has claimed that its forces recaptured five settlements in the southern annexed Kherson region during the ongoing counteroffensive against the Russian forces.

Ukraine has claimed that its forces recaptured five settlements in the southern annexed Kherson region during the ongoing counteroffensive against the Russian forces. According to southern command speaker Vladislav Nazarov, the five villages that were taken on October 11 are Novovasylivka, Novohryhorivka, Nova Kamianka, Tryfonivka and Chervone in the Beryslav district. "Ukrainian armed forces have liberated five more settlements in Beryslav district (of Kherson region): Novovasylivka, Novogrygorivka, Nova Kamyanka, Tryfonivka, Chervone," Ukraine President’s office said in its daily report, according to AFP news agency. The report said that Russian forces were striking back and continuously shelling Ukraine's positions "along the entire contact line". Kherson was among the first cities to be taken by Russian forces since the invasion of Ukraine in February. In late August, the Ukrainian army launched its counteroffensive in the southern part of the country. Currently, the Russian forces are in control of three more Ukrainian regions, apart from Kherson. Apart from the south, the Ukrainian forces claimed to have gained significant advances in the eastern front as well, and regained almost full control of the northeastern region of Kharkiv. Meanwhile, Russia continues to pummel Ukraine with missile strikes, damaging energy sites across the country. President Vladimir Putin said that they were retaliating against the Crimea bridge explosion that reportedly killed four people. On Wednesday, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) detained eight suspects, including five Russian citizens, and three citizens of Ukraine and Armenia, over the blast. In a press release, the FSB blamed Ukraine’s military intelligence for the attack. Meanwhile, Ukraine has neither confirmed nor denied its role in the Kerch Bridge attack. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukraine claims its forces recapture five settlements in Russia-annexed Kherson region

According to Ukrainian authorities its armed forces have liberated five more settlements in Kherson after regaining almost full control of North eastern region of Kharkiv.

Reports: Ukraine recaptures five settlements in Kherson region

Ukrainian forces have captured more villages in Kherson, just days after Vladimir Putin claimed the region as part of Russia. Kherson was one of four regions annexed by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ukraine recaptures Russia-occupied areas in Kherson days after Moscow announced annexation

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Ukrainian soldiers shelled a bus in the Russian-controlled area of southern Ukraine's Kherson region on Friday, resulting in at least five fatalities and as many injuries, according to the Russian TASS news agency.

Authorities that were imposed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-vladimir-putin-turns-70-523244">Russia</a> in the area claimed that the attack happened as the bus was transporting people across a bridge close to the village of Darivka.

The burnt-out remains of what looked to be a bus's chassis were shown in videos posted by the Russian military news agency Zvezda, along with a van that was behind it and had smoke coming out of its front compartment.

"Ambulance crews promptly arrived at the scene and provided emergency medical treatment to the victims," a Telegram channel run by the Russian-installed health authorities said.

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One of the few Russian-controlled crossings over the Inhulets River, a tributary of the enormous Dnipro, is the roughly 100-metre-long Daryivskiy bridge.

The bridge, which is only 20 kilometres (12 miles) north-east of Kherson city, connects two Russian-occupied portions of the region and is therefore strategically significant.

At least twice, it has been shelled, and Ukrainian forces declared in August that they had rendered it inoperable.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. Ukrainian soldiers shelled a bus in the Russian-controlled area of southern Ukraine's Kherson region on Friday, resulting in at least five fatalities and as many injuries, according to the Russian TASS news agency. Authorities that were imposed by Russia in the area claimed that the attack happened as the bus was transporting people across a bridge close to the village of Darivka. The burnt-out remains of what looked to be a bus's chassis were shown in videos posted by the Russian military news agency Zvezda, along with a van that was behind it and had smoke coming out of its front compartment. "Ambulance crews promptly arrived at the scene and provided emergency medical treatment to the victims," a Telegram channel run by the Russian-installed health authorities said. Also read | Nobel Peace Prize 2022 jointly awarded to human rights champions in Belarus, Ukraine and Russia One of the few Russian-controlled crossings over the Inhulets River, a tributary of the enormous Dnipro, is the roughly 100-metre-long Daryivskiy bridge. The bridge, which is only 20 kilometres (12 miles) north-east of Kherson city, connects two Russian-occupied portions of the region and is therefore strategically significant. At least twice, it has been shelled, and Ukrainian forces declared in August that they had rendered it inoperable. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukrainian attack on bus killed five in Russia-occupied Kherson, claims Moscow

The Ukrainian troops have been making rapid advances in the south and east of the country, making their biggest breakthrough since the war began.

While it is breaking through the defences of Russian forces in the south and intensifying its offensive in the east, the Ukrainian troops have also been successful in taking back more Russia-annexed territories.

The biggest advantage gained recently has been in the south of the country, where the Ukrainian forces recaptured several villages along the strategic Dnipro River on Monday, Ukrainian officials and a Russian-installed leader in the area said, reports Reuters news agency.

On Dnipro's west bank, Ukraine has been targeting supply lines for as many as 25,000 Russian troops&nbsp;and has already destroyed the river's main bridges, forcing Russian forces to use makeshift crossings.

Ukrainian forces have reportedly made significant advances in two of the four Russian-occupied regions that were annexed last week following referendums.

On the eastern front, Ukraine has been building momentum, with Ukrainian military vehicles heading to reinforce rail hub Lyman that was recaptured at the weekend, and a staging post to press into the Donbas region, reports Reuters.

Russia's military had turned Lyman into a logistical base.

President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the army’s rapid advances saying that they have retaken towns in a number of areas, without providing details.

"New population centres have been liberated in several regions. Heavy fighting is going on in several sectors of the front," Zelensky said in a video address.

Moreover, reports suggest that Ukrainian forces have been pushing against Russia's proxy forces a few kilometres into the Luhansk region and moving towards the Russian-held towns of Kremenna and Svatove in Luhansk.

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Though a detailed account of all the developments is expected from the Ukrainian government, the military revealed some information.

According to them, the soldiers from Ukraine's 128th Mountain Assault Brigade raised the country's blue and yellow flag in Myrolyubivka, a village between the former front and the Dnipro. A video on the same was released by the Defence Ministry.

A Kherson regional council member, Serhiy Khlan, also listed four other villages recaptured or where Ukrainian troops had been photographed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelenskys-home-town-hit-by-russian-suicide-drones-report-says-521934" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's home town hit by Russian suicide drones, report says</a>

"It means that our armed forces are moving powerfully along the banks of the Dnipro nearer to Beryslav," he said.

On Monday, a senior Pentagon official, Celeste Wallander, said that Ukraine has been on course to gaining several battlefield objectives, giving Kyiv "a much better defensive position to ride out what probably will be a tamping down of the hot fighting over the winter."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Ukrainian troops have been making rapid advances in the south and east of the country, making their biggest breakthrough since the war began. While it is breaking through the defences of Russian forces in the south and intensifying its offensive in the east, the Ukrainian troops have also been successful in taking back more Russia-annexed territories.

The Ukrainian troops have been making rapid advances in the south and east of the country, making their biggest breakthrough since the war began. While it is breaking through the defences of Russian forces in the south and intensifying its offensive in the east, the Ukrainian troops have also been successful in taking back more Russia-annexed territories. The biggest advantage gained recently has been in the south of the country, where the Ukrainian forces recaptured several villages along the strategic Dnipro River on Monday, Ukrainian officials and a Russian-installed leader in the area said, reports Reuters news agency. On Dnipro's west bank, Ukraine has been targeting supply lines for as many as 25,000 Russian troops and has already destroyed the river's main bridges, forcing Russian forces to use makeshift crossings. Ukrainian forces have reportedly made significant advances in two of the four Russian-occupied regions that were annexed last week following referendums. On the eastern front, Ukraine has been building momentum, with Ukrainian military vehicles heading to reinforce rail hub Lyman that was recaptured at the weekend, and a staging post to press into the Donbas region, reports Reuters. Russia's military had turned Lyman into a logistical base. President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the army’s rapid advances saying that they have retaken towns in a number of areas, without providing details. "New population centres have been liberated in several regions. Heavy fighting is going on in several sectors of the front," Zelensky said in a video address. Moreover, reports suggest that Ukrainian forces have been pushing against Russia's proxy forces a few kilometres into the Luhansk region and moving towards the Russian-held towns of Kremenna and Svatove in Luhansk. Also read | Russia’s State Duma ratifies documents on annexation of Ukrainian territories Though a detailed account of all the developments is expected from the Ukrainian government, the military revealed some information. According to them, the soldiers from Ukraine's 128th Mountain Assault Brigade raised the country's blue and yellow flag in Myrolyubivka, a village between the former front and the Dnipro. A video on the same was released by the Defence Ministry. A Kherson regional council member, Serhiy Khlan, also listed four other villages recaptured or where Ukrainian troops had been photographed. Also read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's home town hit by Russian suicide drones, report says "It means that our armed forces are moving powerfully along the banks of the Dnipro nearer to Beryslav," he said. On Monday, a senior Pentagon official, Celeste Wallander, said that Ukraine has been on course to gaining several battlefield objectives, giving Kyiv "a much better defensive position to ride out what probably will be a tamping down of the hot fighting over the winter." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukrainian forces make significant gains in south & east, seize Russia-annexed territories

Four regions of Ukraine are holding referendums on Friday over&nbsp;joining Russia amid the ongoing crisis. The provinces — Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia — are currently under Russian control and in the past few months, Moscow has set up local governments to handle daily administration.

According to AFP, the four provinces together account for around 15 per cent of Ukraine’s territory and right now, it is almost a certainty that the results will favour annexation.&nbsp;

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"From the very start of the operation ... we said that the people&nbsp;of the respective territories should decide their fate, and the whole current situation confirms that they want to be masters of their fate," Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said earlier this week when asked about the referendums.

A similar process was followed by Russia during its annexation of Crimea in 2014 when it claimed that the results were signs of “popular support” — a move that was not recognised by the international community.&nbsp;

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The Ukrainian authorities have already made it clear that they will not accept or recognise the results of the referendums and this can lead to an escalation in the conflict. A majority of western countries have also condemned Russia for this move at the United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

While the plan for the referendums was in place for quite some time, they were accelerated by Ukraine winning back several captured territories&nbsp;in the past few weeks. The Russian forces lost ground in a number of areas as the resistance forces went on to claim victory in both Kharkiv and Luhansk.&nbsp;

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Four regions of Ukraine are holding referendums on Friday over joining Russia amid the ongoing crisis. The provinces — Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia — are currently under Russian control and in the past few months, Moscow has set up local governments to handle daily administration.

Four regions of Ukraine are holding referendums on Friday over joining Russia amid the ongoing crisis. The provinces — Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia — are currently under Russian control and in the past few months, Moscow has set up local governments to handle daily administration. According to AFP, the four provinces together account for around 15 per cent of Ukraine’s territory and right now, it is almost a certainty that the results will favour annexation. Also read | Run to border, search self-harm: How Russians are trying to evade conscription "From the very start of the operation ... we said that the people of the respective territories should decide their fate, and the whole current situation confirms that they want to be masters of their fate," Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said earlier this week when asked about the referendums. A similar process was followed by Russia during its annexation of Crimea in 2014 when it claimed that the results were signs of “popular support” — a move that was not recognised by the international community. Also read | Israel PM Yair Lapid supports 'two-state solution' in UNGA speech The Ukrainian authorities have already made it clear that they will not accept or recognise the results of the referendums and this can lead to an escalation in the conflict. A majority of western countries have also condemned Russia for this move at the United Nations General Assembly. While the plan for the referendums was in place for quite some time, they were accelerated by Ukraine winning back several captured territories in the past few weeks. The Russian forces lost ground in a number of areas as the resistance forces went on to claim victory in both Kharkiv and Luhansk.

Referendums on joining Russia begin in four captured Ukrainian provinces, Kyiv and West condemn move

Russia has postponed the referendum in its occupied territory Kherson on joining Russia following increased shellings in the region by the Ukraine forces.

"This is being paused because of the security situation," BBC quoted Kirill Stremousov, deputy head of the Russian-appointed administration there, as saying.

Earlier there were plans for referendum in Kherson, as well as in the neighbouring Zaporizhzhia region and the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics, on joining Russia in September, coinciding with local elections in Russia.

Kherson region was taken by Russian forces in March, while Kherson city remains the only Ukrainian regional capital captured by Russia since it sent armed forces into Ukraine on February 24.

The West and Ukraine have condemned the referendum plans in Kherson and other areas as illegal.

Last week, Ukraine said that it had launched counter-offensive measures in a bid to retake the region after shelling bridges and ammunition depots for weeks.

Kirill Stremousov told Russian state TV that Ukrainian shelling had damaged Kherson's Antonovskiy Bridge to such an extent that vehicles could no longer pass it.

He added that barges transporting civilians across the Dnieper (Dnipro) river are also being targeted by the Ukrainian fire, and also the city's infrastructure.

The bridge was being used by the Russians to bring troops and hardware in and out of Kherson.

According to BBC, Ukraine is using US-made Himars multiple rocket launchers to push the Russians out of the city, which was the first to fall under the Russian occupation after launching the invasion on February 24.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk has warned that those who participate in the Russian referendum would face Ukrainian prosecution.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russia has postponed the referendum in its occupied territory Kherson on joining Russia following increased shellings in the region by the Ukraine forces. "This is being paused because of the security situation," BBC quoted Kirill Stremousov, deputy head of the Russian-appointed administration there, as saying.

Russia has postponed the referendum in its occupied territory Kherson on joining Russia following increased shellings in the region by the Ukraine forces. "This is being paused because of the security situation," BBC quoted Kirill Stremousov, deputy head of the Russian-appointed administration there, as saying. Earlier there were plans for referendum in Kherson, as well as in the neighbouring Zaporizhzhia region and the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics, on joining Russia in September, coinciding with local elections in Russia. Kherson region was taken by Russian forces in March, while Kherson city remains the only Ukrainian regional capital captured by Russia since it sent armed forces into Ukraine on February 24. The West and Ukraine have condemned the referendum plans in Kherson and other areas as illegal. Last week, Ukraine said that it had launched counter-offensive measures in a bid to retake the region after shelling bridges and ammunition depots for weeks. Kirill Stremousov told Russian state TV that Ukrainian shelling had damaged Kherson's Antonovskiy Bridge to such an extent that vehicles could no longer pass it. He added that barges transporting civilians across the Dnieper (Dnipro) river are also being targeted by the Ukrainian fire, and also the city's infrastructure. The bridge was being used by the Russians to bring troops and hardware in and out of Kherson. According to BBC, Ukraine is using US-made Himars multiple rocket launchers to push the Russians out of the city, which was the first to fall under the Russian occupation after launching the invasion on February 24. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk has warned that those who participate in the Russian referendum would face Ukrainian prosecution. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia postpones referendum in occupied Kherson region after Ukraine intensifies shelling

A Russian-installed official in Ukraine's Kherson region said that plans for a referendum on joining Russia had been "paused" due to the security situation.

Ukrainian counter-offensive hinted as reason for referendum pause

Intense fighting continues to rage in Ukraine's southern part as Ukrainian forces step up their counter-offensive operations in a bid to retake the Russian-held Kherson region.

Fighting intensifies in Kherson region, Ukraine seeks to retake Russian-held region

Ukraine has announced the launch of a counter-offensive to recapture southern parts of the country and has advanced into the Kherson, Mykolaiv regions; however, Russia claimed to have repulsed the Ukrainian offensive.

Ukraine launches counter-offensive to recapture Kherson, Mykolaiv

Kherson, in the south of the country, was taken by Russian forces early in their invasion in February, but a Ukrainian official predicted that Kyiv's soldiers would retake it by September. Assistant to the governor of the Kherson region Sergiy Khlan told Ukrainian television that "we can say that the Kherson region will definitely be liberated by September, and all the occupiers' plans will fail." Following the delivery of long-range weaponry from the West, the Ukrainian army has recently begun regaining ground in the southern Kherson region.

Khlan stated, "We can say that a turning point has occurred on the battlefield. We see that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are prevailing in their most recent military operations. We see that our armed forces are advancing openly. We can say that we are switching from defensive to counteroffensive actions." He claimed that Ukrainian attacks on two strategically important bridges in the area, along with assaults on Russian command centres and arsenals, were part of the preparations for a ground onslaught.

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He further mentioned that Russian soldiers were having trouble deploying heavy weapons onto Kherson city and had not yet rebuilt the damaged Antonivka bridge. On March 3, Russian forces took Kherson, the principal city in the area. Following the beginning of Moscow's military action in Ukraine in late February, it was the country's first significant city to fall. The area, which is significant for Ukrainian agriculture, is situated close to the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia acquired in that year.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Kherson, in the south of the country, was taken by Russian forces early in their invasion in February, but a Ukrainian official predicted that Kyiv's soldiers would retake it by September.

Kherson, in the south of the country, was taken by Russian forces early in their invasion in February, but a Ukrainian official predicted that Kyiv's soldiers would retake it by September. Assistant to the governor of the Kherson region Sergiy Khlan told Ukrainian television that "we can say that the Kherson region will definitely be liberated by September, and all the occupiers' plans will fail." Following the delivery of long-range weaponry from the West, the Ukrainian army has recently begun regaining ground in the southern Kherson region. Khlan stated, "We can say that a turning point has occurred on the battlefield. We see that the Armed Forces of Ukraine are prevailing in their most recent military operations. We see that our armed forces are advancing openly. We can say that we are switching from defensive to counteroffensive actions." He claimed that Ukrainian attacks on two strategically important bridges in the area, along with assaults on Russian command centres and arsenals, were part of the preparations for a ground onslaught. Also Read: Ever heard about bio-weapons that use DNA to kill specific person? They are reality now He further mentioned that Russian soldiers were having trouble deploying heavy weapons onto Kherson city and had not yet rebuilt the damaged Antonivka bridge. On March 3, Russian forces took Kherson, the principal city in the area. Following the beginning of Moscow's military action in Ukraine in late February, it was the country's first significant city to fall. The area, which is significant for Ukrainian agriculture, is situated close to the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia acquired in that year. (with inputs from agencies)

By September, Ukraine's Kherson region will be 'liberated' from Russia: Sergiy Khlan

The crisis in Ukraine has been waging on for around five months and in that period, the Russian military has gained control over a number of areas around the country. However, there was some good news for Ukraine on Wednesday as the resistance forces damaged a bridge in the southern part of the country which will severely restrict Russia’s movements in the region.

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Kirill Stremousov, deputy head of the Russia-backed temporary administration for the southern Kherson region, told Associated Press that the Ukrainian forces massively damaged the Antonivskyi Bridge with missiles.

This was a huge victory for Ukraine as the bridge connects the areas around the Dnieper River and without it, Russian military was struggle. Stremousov also said that the Ukrainian forces used HIMARS rocket launchers which were provided by the United States in their attack on the bridge.

This was the second attack on the bridge by the Ukrainian forces as Russia has gained a lot of control already in the Kherson region. However, head of the Moscow-appointed Kherson administration, Vladimir Saldo, downplayed the damage done to the bridge as he said in a video message that they are not allowing heavy vehicles, but the repairs will be done within one or two days.

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Meanwhile, the Ukrainian authorities reported more casualties in the Donbas region due to continuous Russian shelling. According to the recent data, 13 people were killed and around 40 injured in the last 24 hours.

AP reported that Ukraine's presidential office reported three move civilian deaths in Kharkiv due to missiles launched by the Russian military.

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The crisis in Ukraine has been waging on for around five months and in that period, the Russian military has gained control over a number of areas around the country.

The crisis in Ukraine has been waging on for around five months and in that period, the Russian military has gained control over a number of areas around the country. However, there was some good news for Ukraine on Wednesday as the resistance forces damaged a bridge in the southern part of the country which will severely restrict Russia’s movements in the region. Also read | Watch: Turkish President Erdogan keeps Putin waiting ahead of talks in Iran Kirill Stremousov, deputy head of the Russia-backed temporary administration for the southern Kherson region, told Associated Press that the Ukrainian forces massively damaged the Antonivskyi Bridge with missiles. This was a huge victory for Ukraine as the bridge connects the areas around the Dnieper River and without it, Russian military was struggle. Stremousov also said that the Ukrainian forces used HIMARS rocket launchers which were provided by the United States in their attack on the bridge. This was the second attack on the bridge by the Ukrainian forces as Russia has gained a lot of control already in the Kherson region. However, head of the Moscow-appointed Kherson administration, Vladimir Saldo, downplayed the damage done to the bridge as he said in a video message that they are not allowing heavy vehicles, but the repairs will be done within one or two days. Also read | Rishi Sunak could become 11th Indian-origin head of govt, joining 6 in office Meanwhile, the Ukrainian authorities reported more casualties in the Donbas region due to continuous Russian shelling. According to the recent data, 13 people were killed and around 40 injured in the last 24 hours. AP reported that Ukraine's presidential office reported three move civilian deaths in Kharkiv due to missiles launched by the Russian military. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian forces 'badly damage' key bridge in Kherson region amid ongoing conflict

Ukraine's southern Kherson region, where Moscow has already introduced the ruble and began distributing Russian passports, is now broadcasting Russian television, as said by the Russian army on Tuesday. It said that the Russian armed forces have “reconfigured the last of the seven television towers in the Kherson region to broadcast Russian television channels” for free.

Bordering the Crimea peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014, the Kherson region was occupied by Russian forces in the days following the Kremlin's offensive in late February. Tuesday, one of the pro-Moscow officials in the region, Kirill Stremousov, said that the territory could join Russia "before the end of the year."

The city in southern Ukraine, which had 300,000 inhabitants before the war, has been virtually cut off from the outside world since it fell into Russian hands. Residents are subjected to "constant checks at numerous checkpoints" with Russians checking "documents, phones and bags".

On a Moscow-organised visit to Kherson earlier this month, there were only a few soldiers in the centre, but many checkpoints on the outskirts, as reported by AFP. &nbsp;But he said, unlike in other towns and cities in the south, such as the port of Berdyansk, few Russian flags were flying.&nbsp;

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Tetyana said some residents had painted Ukrainian flags in the streets or hung blue and yellow ribbons on tree branches in protest. &nbsp;Russian forces were also struggling to enforce the use of the Russian ruble in Kherson, with people insisting on "paying in (Ukrainian) hryvnia".&nbsp;

Since the takeover, residents of Kherson and other occupied areas say food prices have skyrocketed. After severe shortages of medicine in the region, some critical drugs were once again available but hard to get hold of, she said.

Not everyone in Kherson has given up hope that the Ukrainian army will eventually liberate the town.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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Ukraine's southern Kherson region, where Moscow has already introduced the ruble and began distributing Russian passports, is now broadcasting Russian television, as said by the Russian army on Tuesday.

Ukraine's southern Kherson region, where Moscow has already introduced the ruble and began distributing Russian passports, is now broadcasting Russian television, as said by the Russian army on Tuesday. It said that the Russian armed forces have “reconfigured the last of the seven television towers in the Kherson region to broadcast Russian television channels” for free. Bordering the Crimea peninsula, which Russia annexed in 2014, the Kherson region was occupied by Russian forces in the days following the Kremlin's offensive in late February. Tuesday, one of the pro-Moscow officials in the region, Kirill Stremousov, said that the territory could join Russia "before the end of the year." The city in southern Ukraine, which had 300,000 inhabitants before the war, has been virtually cut off from the outside world since it fell into Russian hands. Residents are subjected to "constant checks at numerous checkpoints" with Russians checking "documents, phones and bags". On a Moscow-organised visit to Kherson earlier this month, there were only a few soldiers in the centre, but many checkpoints on the outskirts, as reported by AFP. But he said, unlike in other towns and cities in the south, such as the port of Berdyansk, few Russian flags were flying. Also Read: Toki, 'modern phoenix' of Japan brought back from extinction Tetyana said some residents had painted Ukrainian flags in the streets or hung blue and yellow ribbons on tree branches in protest. Russian forces were also struggling to enforce the use of the Russian ruble in Kherson, with people insisting on "paying in (Ukrainian) hryvnia". Since the takeover, residents of Kherson and other occupied areas say food prices have skyrocketed. After severe shortages of medicine in the region, some critical drugs were once again available but hard to get hold of, she said. Not everyone in Kherson has given up hope that the Ukrainian army will eventually liberate the town. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian television starts broadcast in Ukraine’s Kherson

The Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine were taken over by the Russian military and on Saturday, the first Russian passports were issued for the residents of the two regions. Local administration told RIA Novosti that 23 passports were issued in the Kherson region and the first one to receive a passport was Vladimir Saldo, head of the military-civilian administration.

"The first passports of citizens of the Russian Federation have already been issued in the Zaporozhye region. For us, this is a significant and historic event. Another step on the way to our return home to Russia," said Vladimir Rogov, a member of the main council of the military-civilian administration of the Zaporozhye region, according to the RIA Novosti report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-lloyd-austin-slams-chinas-destabilising-military-activity-near-taiwan-487110" hreflang="en">US Defence Secy slams China's 'destabilising' military activity near Taiwan</a>

Saldo also spoke to RIA Novosti and said that Russia and Ukraine have always been “one country” and hailed the ongoing invasion as “a new history and life” for the people of Ukraine.

“For me, this is really a historic moment. I always thought that we are one country and one people,”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ursula-von-der-leyen-visits-ukraine-to-discuss-its-bid-to-get-eu-candidacy-status-487183">European Union chief visits Ukraine to discuss its bid to join bloc</a>

“Apparently, fate so pleased not to let this be done to the end. Proof of this are all the events that are happening now. For us, this is a new history and life,” he concluded according to the report.

Earlier, Russian president Vladimir Putin signed a decree to ease the passport process for residents of the two regions. According to Russian authorities, they received thousands of applications for Russian citizenship, and they just need to submit a copy of their Ukrainian passport to apply.

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine were taken over by the Russian military and on Saturday, the first Russian passports were issued for the residents of the two regions.

The Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions of Ukraine were taken over by the Russian military and on Saturday, the first Russian passports were issued for the residents of the two regions. Local administration told RIA Novosti that 23 passports were issued in the Kherson region and the first one to receive a passport was Vladimir Saldo, head of the military-civilian administration. "The first passports of citizens of the Russian Federation have already been issued in the Zaporozhye region. For us, this is a significant and historic event. Another step on the way to our return home to Russia," said Vladimir Rogov, a member of the main council of the military-civilian administration of the Zaporozhye region, according to the RIA Novosti report. Also read | US Defence Secy slams China's 'destabilising' military activity near Taiwan Saldo also spoke to RIA Novosti and said that Russia and Ukraine have always been “one country” and hailed the ongoing invasion as “a new history and life” for the people of Ukraine. “For me, this is really a historic moment. I always thought that we are one country and one people,” Also read | European Union chief visits Ukraine to discuss its bid to join bloc “Apparently, fate so pleased not to let this be done to the end. Proof of this are all the events that are happening now. For us, this is a new history and life,” he concluded according to the report. Earlier, Russian president Vladimir Putin signed a decree to ease the passport process for residents of the two regions. According to Russian authorities, they received thousands of applications for Russian citizenship, and they just need to submit a copy of their Ukrainian passport to apply. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. (With inputs from agencies)

First Russian passports handed out to Ukrainians in Kherson region: Report

Pro Kremlin authorities in Ukraine's southern city of Kherson, the first city to be captured by Russian forces on Wednesday urged President Vladimir Putin to annex the region. Moscow responded to the request saying that the local residents should decide their own fate.

Ukraine invasion: Kherson to soon be annexed by Russian troops?

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has officially entered its third month and although the Ukrainians have mounted a solid resistance, a lot of cities have already fallen to the marching Russian army.

The region of Kherson has been one of the regions where the Russian military was able to strengthen their position. The Russian military were able to withstand the resistance and on Tuesday, the defense ministry announced that the army has taken complete control over the region.

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An official from a pro-Russian committee has now told news agency RIA that the region will be using Russian ruble as their official currency from May 1. There has been a rise in the number of these committees who have taken over the administration of the region in the aftermath of the invasion.

Kirill Stremousov, who is part of the pro-Russian committee in Kherson, said that the transition will take around four months, but it will be put into circulation in the region with immediate effect.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-response-to-outside-intervention-will-be-lightning-fast-putin-on-ukraine-war-474481" hreflang="en">Russia's response to outside intervention will be lightning fast: Putin on Ukraine war</a>

According to the RIA report, the Ukrainian hryvnia will be used during the period of the transition, but the goal is to completely replace it with the ruble in the Kherson region within a few months.

Russia has taken over the administration of the region completely with a new mayor in place and the troops are currently positioned in the regional headquarters of the area. The Kherson region is quite important for Russia as it has a land link with Crimea and other Russian-backed parts of Ukraine.

WATCH |&nbsp;Russia cuts off gas supply to nations, 'Putin is trying to provoke a global price crisis'

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(With inputs from agencies)

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has officially entered its third month and although the Ukrainians have mounted a solid resistance, a lot of cities have already fallen to the marching Russian army.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has officially entered its third month and although the Ukrainians have mounted a solid resistance, a lot of cities have already fallen to the marching Russian army. The region of Kherson has been one of the regions where the Russian military was able to strengthen their position. The Russian military were able to withstand the resistance and on Tuesday, the defense ministry announced that the army has taken complete control over the region. Also read | EU calls Russian move to cut gas a 'blackmail' An official from a pro-Russian committee has now told news agency RIA that the region will be using Russian ruble as their official currency from May 1. There has been a rise in the number of these committees who have taken over the administration of the region in the aftermath of the invasion. Kirill Stremousov, who is part of the pro-Russian committee in Kherson, said that the transition will take around four months, but it will be put into circulation in the region with immediate effect. Also read | Russia's response to outside intervention will be lightning fast: Putin on Ukraine war According to the RIA report, the Ukrainian hryvnia will be used during the period of the transition, but the goal is to completely replace it with the ruble in the Kherson region within a few months. Russia has taken over the administration of the region completely with a new mayor in place and the troops are currently positioned in the regional headquarters of the area. The Kherson region is quite important for Russia as it has a land link with Crimea and other Russian-backed parts of Ukraine. WATCH | Russia cuts off gas supply to nations, 'Putin is trying to provoke a global price crisis' (With inputs from agencies)

Russian-controlled Kherson region of Ukraine to start using Ruble as official currency: Report

The horrors of war have engulfed Ukraine and there seems to be no respite for the people staying in the country amidst the Russian army invasion.

However, there was some enjoyment for a number of children who fled from the heavily attacked city of Kherson to the port city of Odesa.<o:p></o:p>

The children enjoyed a show featuring dolphins at the Nemo Hotel in Odesa on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

"I liked everything very much. We have been dreaming about getting to a dolphin show for a long time. Such great emotions," said Irina Borisevich, 35, who fled Kherson with her two young children aged five and three according to a report on Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-it-destroyed-s-300-anti-aircraft-missile-systems-given-to-ukraine-by-eu-nation-470257" hreflang="en">Russia claims it destroyed S-300 anti-aircraft missile systems given to Ukraine by EU nation</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"It is a pity that this is happening under such circumstances," she added.<o:p></o:p>

The people who fled from Kherson were provided free accommodation at the Odesa hotel.<o:p></o:p>

"The dolphins are very positive, they don’t care about war," said the service manager at the hotel, Vyacheslav Lutushko as quoted by the report.<o:p></o:p>

The refugees will stay for a few days in Odesa and will start their journey once more to find refuge outside the country. There were a few attacks from Russia on Odesa as well and the facility housing the dolphins is just five Kilometers away from an oil refinery which came under heavy bombing.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-marks-10-years-since-kim-jong-uns-election-as-top-party-leader-470244" hreflang="en">North Korea marks 10 years since Kim Jong Un's election as top party leader</a>

The Reuters report stated that Borisevich travelled for nearly 12 hours in order to reach Odesa from Kherson after it was occupied by the Russian forces on March 3. The journey normally takes three hours but the roadblocks and checkpoints by the Russian forces made it very difficult for them.<o:p></o:p>

"It was scary to drive through Russian checkpoints because they were looking at documents, checking phones, things. They could take away anything they wanted from someone," she said.<o:p></o:p>

The horrors of war have engulfed Ukraine and there seems to be no respite for the people staying in the country amidst the Russian army invasion. However, there was some enjoyment for a number of children who fled from the heavily attacked city of Kherson to the port city of Odesa.

The horrors of war have engulfed Ukraine and there seems to be no respite for the people staying in the country amidst the Russian army invasion. However, there was some enjoyment for a number of children who fled from the heavily attacked city of Kherson to the port city of Odesa. The children enjoyed a show featuring dolphins at the Nemo Hotel in Odesa on Saturday. "I liked everything very much. We have been dreaming about getting to a dolphin show for a long time. Such great emotions," said Irina Borisevich, 35, who fled Kherson with her two young children aged five and three according to a report on Reuters. Also read | Russia claims it destroyed S-300 anti-aircraft missile systems given to Ukraine by EU nation "It is a pity that this is happening under such circumstances," she added. The people who fled from Kherson were provided free accommodation at the Odesa hotel. "The dolphins are very positive, they don’t care about war," said the service manager at the hotel, Vyacheslav Lutushko as quoted by the report. The refugees will stay for a few days in Odesa and will start their journey once more to find refuge outside the country. There were a few attacks from Russia on Odesa as well and the facility housing the dolphins is just five Kilometers away from an oil refinery which came under heavy bombing. Also read | North Korea marks 10 years since Kim Jong Un's election as top party leader The Reuters report stated that Borisevich travelled for nearly 12 hours in order to reach Odesa from Kherson after it was occupied by the Russian forces on March 3. The journey normally takes three hours but the roadblocks and checkpoints by the Russian forces made it very difficult for them. "It was scary to drive through Russian checkpoints because they were looking at documents, checking phones, things. They could take away anything they wanted from someone," she said.

Dolphins bring joy to Ukrainian children fleeing war in Kherson

A unique incident was captured on camera as Ukrainian citizens confronted Russian military vehicles in the city of Kherson on Sunday.

"Go Home!" shouted the Ukrainians as they forced two Russian military vehicles to ultimately reverse and take an about-turn.

In a video obtained and released by Reuters, nearly a hundred Ukrainian citizens blocked path of&nbsp;Russian military vehicles. The military vehicles were seen painted&nbsp;in a “Z” symbol, heavily associated with the Russian military.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/high-risk-of-attack-from-belarus-on-western-volyn-region-of-ukraine-says-presidential-office-464023">High risk of attack from Belarus on western Volyn region of Ukraine, says presidential office</a>

Buildings and shops along the avenue matched those seen on Google satellite imagery, as well as file images of the area.

Following the confrontation by the protesters, some wearing Ukrainian flags, the vehicles turned around and left the immediate area.

Ukrainian authorities said on Saturday (March 19) that they had not seen any significant shifts over the past 24 hours in frontline areas, with fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces continuing in the Black Sea port-city Kherson.

Russia has said it now controls the Kherson region.

Meanwhile, China has called for ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, as said by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. However, Wang Yi has not criticised Russia.&nbsp;

CCTV cited Wang saying "NATO's unrestricted eastward expansion deserves reflection", shifting blame for the war to Western countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

A unique incident was captured on camera as Ukrainian citizens confronted Russian military vehicles in the city of Kherson on Sunday. "Go Home!" shouted the Ukrainians as they forced two Russian military vehicles to ultimately reverse and take an about-turn.

A unique incident was captured on camera as Ukrainian citizens confronted Russian military vehicles in the city of Kherson on Sunday. "Go Home!" shouted the Ukrainians as they forced two Russian military vehicles to ultimately reverse and take an about-turn. In a video obtained and released by Reuters, nearly a hundred Ukrainian citizens blocked path of Russian military vehicles. The military vehicles were seen painted in a “Z” symbol, heavily associated with the Russian military. Also Read | High risk of attack from Belarus on western Volyn region of Ukraine, says presidential office Buildings and shops along the avenue matched those seen on Google satellite imagery, as well as file images of the area. Following the confrontation by the protesters, some wearing Ukrainian flags, the vehicles turned around and left the immediate area. Ukrainian authorities said on Saturday (March 19) that they had not seen any significant shifts over the past 24 hours in frontline areas, with fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces continuing in the Black Sea port-city Kherson. Russia has said it now controls the Kherson region. Meanwhile, China has called for ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, as said by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. However, Wang Yi has not criticised Russia. CCTV cited Wang saying "NATO's unrestricted eastward expansion deserves reflection", shifting blame for the war to Western countries. (With inputs from agencies)

'Go Home': Ukrainian protesters confront Russian military vehicles in Kherson

On March 2, a week after the invasion began, Russia grabbed control of its first city in Ukraine.

A senior Ukrainian official told The New York Times that Kherson is now under Russian control after the city was surrounded earlier in the day.

In an interview with The Times, Igor Kolykhaev, the mayor of the 300,000-person city, stated that the city was surrounded and that the Ukrainian army was not present.

The mayor claimed previously <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kolykhaev.igor/posts/4999567616803299">on Facebook, in a post</a> published by several media houses, that Russians were in the local council and that his squad would not fight because they lacked weapons.&nbsp;

"I made no promises to them. I just have nothing to promise. I am only interested in the normal life of our city! I just asked not to shoot people. We don't have Ukrainian Armed Forces in the city, only civilians and people who want to LIVE here! " Kolykhaev said.&nbsp;

Around 300 civilians and defence troops may have been killed during the takeover. 
 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-billionaires-600-million-luxury-yacht-seized-by-german-authorities-says-report-458362">Russian billionaire’s $600 million luxury yacht seized by German authorities, says report&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

Kherson – considered to be a strategically key centre – has around 300,000 residents, and its capture could enable Russia to control a significant chunk of the southern coastline and allow troops to head west towards the port city of Odessa. 
 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-unravel-truth-iccs-prosecutor-starts-investigation-into-possible-war-crimes-in-ukraine-458350">ICC's prosecutor starts investigation into possible war crimes in Ukraine</a>

Russia has declared victory over Kherson, with Defence Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov claiming that Russian forces have "full control" of the city.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On March 2, a week after the invasion began, Russia grabbed control of its first city in Ukraine. A senior Ukrainian official told The New York Times that Kherson is now under Russian control after the city was surrounded earlier in the day.

On March 2, a week after the invasion began, Russia grabbed control of its first city in Ukraine. A senior Ukrainian official told The New York Times that Kherson is now under Russian control after the city was surrounded earlier in the day. In an interview with The Times, Igor Kolykhaev, the mayor of the 300,000-person city, stated that the city was surrounded and that the Ukrainian army was not present. The mayor claimed previously on Facebook, in a post published by several media houses, that Russians were in the local council and that his squad would not fight because they lacked weapons. "I made no promises to them. I just have nothing to promise. I am only interested in the normal life of our city! I just asked not to shoot people. We don't have Ukrainian Armed Forces in the city, only civilians and people who want to LIVE here! " Kolykhaev said. Around 300 civilians and defence troops may have been killed during the takeover. Also Read: Russian billionaire’s $600 million luxury yacht seized by German authorities, says report Kherson – considered to be a strategically key centre – has around 300,000 residents, and its capture could enable Russia to control a significant chunk of the southern coastline and allow troops to head west towards the port city of Odessa. Also Read: ICC's prosecutor starts investigation into possible war crimes in Ukraine Russia has declared victory over Kherson, with Defence Ministry spokesperson Igor Konashenkov claiming that Russian forces have "full control" of the city. (With inputs from agencies)

Kherson: First Ukrainian city falls to Russian troops 

Despite unexpectedly ferocious resistance, the first major Ukrainian city fell to Russian forces as they take the Black Sea port of Kherson in southern Ukraine. It was confirmed on Thursday (March 3).&nbsp;

Igor Kolykhayev, who is the mayor of the Ukrainian city of Kherson, on Wednesday (March 2), said Russian troops were in the streets and had forced their way into the city council building.&nbsp;

Kolykhayev urged Russian soldiers not to shoot at civilians and publicly called on civilians to walk through the streets only in daylight and in ones and twos. "We do not have the Armed Forces in the city, only civilians and people who want to LIVE here!" he said in a statement.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ukraine-under-attack-satellite-images-show-whats-happening-on-the-ground-zero-458503">Ukraine under attack: Satellite&nbsp;images show what's happening on the ground zero</a>

But what's next?&nbsp;

On February 25, Reuters reported citing military analysts and former officials that Russia's invasion of Ukraine looks designed to take Kyiv and create a land corridor south to the Black Sea, splitting the country into two.&nbsp;

In the latest analysis by The Telegraph, Russian President Vladimir Putin's move suggested that he is set to 'cut Ukraine in two' as Russian troops gain vital bridgehead to attack Kyiv.&nbsp;

The advancement means that Russian armed forces can cross the River Dnieper, which cuts Ukraine in two and head westwards and northwards to attack Kyiv from a second direction.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-russias-sarmat-intercontinental-ballistic-missile-can-change-battlefield-dynamic-458549">How Russia's Sarmat Intercontinental ballistic missile can change battlefield dynamic</a>

The southern port city of Mariupol, which is an industrial port on the Sea of Azov, becomes vital now because Russia will need to control if it is to open a land route from the city of Odesa with the occupied territory of the Crimean peninsula.&nbsp;

Mariupol is in the way of the Russian leader controlling the coastline from Crimea to the Donbas. City's mayor, Vadym Boichenko, said: "Their [Russia] mission is to destroy us. We cannot even take the wounded from the streets, from houses and apartments today, since the shelling does not stop."&nbsp;

The reports have&nbsp;mentioned that the Russian forces pound and encircle the strategic port city of Mariupol, which is without water or electricity.&nbsp;

The Russian forces relentlessly launched rocket artillery fire on Mariupol. The authorities said as quoted by the media outlet that they were trying to make the city unlivable by targeting civilian infrastructure and homes. Officials said it amounted to "real genocide".&nbsp;

The media outlet has also uncovered evidence of what appeared to be fresh war crimes committed by Russia.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine conflict: New sanctions on Belarus, Russian defence sector

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Despite unexpectedly ferocious resistance, the first major Ukrainian city fell to Russian forces as they take the Black Sea port of Kherson in southern Ukraine. It was confirmed on Thursday (March 3).

Despite unexpectedly ferocious resistance, the first major Ukrainian city fell to Russian forces as they take the Black Sea port of Kherson in southern Ukraine. It was confirmed on Thursday (March 3). Igor Kolykhayev, who is the mayor of the Ukrainian city of Kherson, on Wednesday (March 2), said Russian troops were in the streets and had forced their way into the city council building. Kolykhayev urged Russian soldiers not to shoot at civilians and publicly called on civilians to walk through the streets only in daylight and in ones and twos. "We do not have the Armed Forces in the city, only civilians and people who want to LIVE here!" he said in a statement. IN PICS | Ukraine under attack: Satellite images show what's happening on the ground zero But what's next? On February 25, Reuters reported citing military analysts and former officials that Russia's invasion of Ukraine looks designed to take Kyiv and create a land corridor south to the Black Sea, splitting the country into two. In the latest analysis by The Telegraph, Russian President Vladimir Putin's move suggested that he is set to 'cut Ukraine in two' as Russian troops gain vital bridgehead to attack Kyiv. The advancement means that Russian armed forces can cross the River Dnieper, which cuts Ukraine in two and head westwards and northwards to attack Kyiv from a second direction. IN PICS | How Russia's Sarmat Intercontinental ballistic missile can change battlefield dynamic The southern port city of Mariupol, which is an industrial port on the Sea of Azov, becomes vital now because Russia will need to control if it is to open a land route from the city of Odesa with the occupied territory of the Crimean peninsula. Mariupol is in the way of the Russian leader controlling the coastline from Crimea to the Donbas. City's mayor, Vadym Boichenko, said: "Their [Russia] mission is to destroy us. We cannot even take the wounded from the streets, from houses and apartments today, since the shelling does not stop." The reports have mentioned that the Russian forces pound and encircle the strategic port city of Mariupol, which is without water or electricity. The Russian forces relentlessly launched rocket artillery fire on Mariupol. The authorities said as quoted by the media outlet that they were trying to make the city unlivable by targeting civilian infrastructure and homes. Officials said it amounted to "real genocide". The media outlet has also uncovered evidence of what appeared to be fresh war crimes committed by Russia. WATCH | Ukraine conflict: New sanctions on Belarus, Russian defence sector ×

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