Russian leadership announces retreat from Kherson

Sergey Surovikin, the commander of Russia's troops in Ukraine, suggested during a report to Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu that Russia should leave the right bank-region (west of the Dnipro) of Kherson. Surovikin’s report was broadcast live on television channel Russia 24.

Shoigu agreed with Surovikin’s suggestion.

Surovikin announced that under current conditions Kherson and neighboring settlements cannot be fully supplied. “I have assessed the situation, and I propose creating a defense along the left bank of the Dnipro,” he said. Surovikin called the decision “difficult” but said it would save lives.

“The lives and safety of our Russian troops is always our priority. We also need to keep in mind threats to the civilian population. Proceed with troop withdrawal and take all measures for the safe transfer of equipment, weapons, and personnel across the Dnipro River,” said Shoigu.

Follow Meduza in English on Twitter to stay up to date.