In a major tactical development in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Ukrainian forces have recaptured the strategically located Nestryha Island from Russian control. This island, situated in the Kherson region, is a valuable position due to its oversight of the Dnieper River and proximity to the city of Kherson. According to Captain Dmytro Pletenchuk, spokesperson for the Southern Operational Command of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, the reclaiming of Nestryha Island is a significant boon to Kyiv’s counter-sabotage measures and strengthens its military presence in the area.
The recapture of Nestryha Island, approximately 12 miles southwest of Kherson, follows a series of successful operations by Ukrainian forces across the river. Pletenchuk highlighted the tactical significance of the island, telling Hromadske Radio, “any locations that prevent the enemy from approaching our positions are important.” He also emphasized the role of such islands on the Dnieper River, which the enemy has used to move closer and install mortar positions, underscoring the importance of the island for counter-sabotage quality.
The Kyiv Post outlined the strategic value of Nestryha, suggesting that it is key to future Ukrainian operations aimed at liberating occupied Crimea. Control of the island not only limits the number of routes available to Russian troops but also enhances Ukraine’s supply options.
Meanwhile, Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander-in-chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces, revealed on Telegram that Ukrainian forces have also made progress near the village of Veletenske in southern Kherson. Despite these gains, Syrskyi described the overall situation in the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions as tense, with Russian troops attempting advances in multiple sectors. He acknowledged that the front line conditions were worsening due to Russia’s significant force advantage. Syrskyi mentioned the reinforcement of Ukrainian troops in the most threatened areas with artillery and tank units and highlighted efforts to obtain weapons and military equipment from partners as swiftly as possible.
The recapture of Nestryha Island comes amid a challenging backdrop, as indicated by Ukraine’s recent retreat from three villages in Donetsk, where Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for expedited weapons deliveries from Kyiv’s allies. The urgency of this request is underscored by the strategic advances and retreats as Ukraine struggles with ammunition supply and the continuous offensive from Russian forces. Zelenskyy has also called for stronger political support from the West, pressing for Ukraine’s inclusion in the EU and NATO.
Relevant articles:
– Russia Loses Control of Key Island, Newsweek, 04/30/2024
– Ukraine retreats from Donetsk villages, citing lack of ammo, POLITICO Europe, Mon, 29 Apr 2024 09:15:00 GMT
– McCreary County Record: Ukraine withdraws from Donetsk villages due to ammunition shortage, McCreary County Record, Mon, 29 Apr 2024 16:05:15 GMT