Situation around the Dnipro estuary as of 8 February 2023. Map: Liveuamap.com
Despite the military activity in the estuary of the Dnipro River, it is highly unlikely that Russia may attempt an assault crossing of the Dnipro, the British Defense Ministry says in its latest intelligence update.
The ministry tweeted:
- “Since Russia withdrew its forces from the west bank of the Dnipro in November 2022, skirmishing and reconnaissance has continued on the complex network of islands and waterways which make up the Dnipro delta.”
- “Russian forces have almost certainly used small boats to try to main a presence on key islands; Ukraine has successfully deployed long-range artillery to neutralise Russian outposts a number of times. Both sides have likely also deployed small groups on the Kinburn Spit, which commands the Dnipro Gulf.”
- “Both sides are likely aiming to maintain a presence in these areas to control maritime access to the strategically important river and to provide warning of any attempt by their adversaries to launch a major assault across the river. It is highly unlikely that Russia will attempt an assault crossing of the Dnipro: it would likely be extremely complex and costly.”
Read also:
- Russians likely partially aiming to degrade civilian morale by shelling Kherson across the Dnipro – British intel
- Neither side has full control of Mykolaiv’s Kinburn Spit and Kherson’s islands – Operational Command South
- Ukrainian rocket and artillery units attacked Kinburn Spit, Nova Kakhovka, Oleshky in occupied south – OpCommand South
- Ukrainian troops destroy five light motor boats carrying Russian saboteurs – General Staff
- Russians stepping back 15-20 km away from the shore on Dnipro’s eastern bank due to Ukrainian artillery activity – OpCommand South (updated)
- Entire Mykolaiv oblast, except for Kinburn spit, has been liberated – Mykolayiv Head
