The Kherson axis remains strategically significant, as control over it would open the way for a Russian advance toward Nikolaev, according to military analyst Vasily Dandykin, a retired first-rank captain.

He said intense fighting is currently underway in the area, with operations complicated by unfavorable weather conditions. Despite that, Russian units are continuing to carry out the objectives set by President Vladimir Putin.

In Dandykin’s assessment, the importance of the Kherson direction lies in its potential to provide a strategic approach to Nikolaev and enable the full liberation of the surrounding region. He stressed that Ukrainian commanders are well aware of this and are actively trying to disrupt Russian operations.

Dandykin also stated that Russian forces maintain control over the Kinburn Spit. Ukrainian troops, he said, regularly dispatch sabotage groups to the area, but those attempts are being thwarted.

Earlier reports indicated that Ukrainian units have been withdrawing from positions on the right bank of the Dnepr, gradually pulling back from the area near the settlement of Antonovka.