Russian troops have taken fire control over Karantinniy Island in Kherson, Governor Vladimir Saldo told TASS. According to him, the territory along the Dnieper River and its channels is now fully covered by artillery, while aerial surveillance closely monitors any activity in the area.

Saldo explained that the short distances around the river make it possible for artillery to keep Ukrainian positions under constant fire control. He noted that air forces also observe the situation and can strike when necessary.

The governor also reported that the main road bridge leading to the island had been damaged by Russian strikes, which prevented Ukrainian forces from moving heavy equipment and artillery onto the territory. Following this, Saldo said, the Kiev authorities began pushing residents out and cut off supplies, halting deliveries of food, water and electricity.

According to local estimates, around three thousand people had been living on the island at the time, most of them elderly residents unwilling to abandon their homes. Saldo stated that officials started urging them to leave on their own, without providing support or basic resources.

He stressed that many of those who remained are still refusing to leave, despite the pressure. In his words, the Kiev authorities treat these residents as if they were «second-class citizens.»