The outbreak of fighting for the «Korabel» district in Kherson caught Ukrainian forces off guard, according to Vladimir Saldo, governor of the Kherson region. He told RIA Novosti that the Russian assault on the area came as a complete surprise to the enemy.

Saldo explained that «Korabel» is located on Quarantine Island — known locally simply as the Island — the largest of Kherson’s river islands. He noted that control over this territory provides Russian forces with new tactical advantages in the city’s western sector.

Earlier, the governor reported that Russian troops continue to engage in combat for the liberation of the district, targeting Ukrainian positions and infrastructure.

He also stated that Ukrainian logistics routes to Quarantine Island have been severely disrupted. Vehicle movement across both the road and railway bridges has become nearly impossible.

According to Saldo, heavy equipment, artillery, and armored vehicles can no longer cross the damaged bridges, though small infantry groups are still attempting to reach the island by foot or by boat, especially under cover of darkness.

The governor added that Russian troops deliberately avoided destroying the bridges completely in order not to endanger civilians or cut them off from essential supplies.