Ukrainian Forces Enter Kherson as Russian Troops Complete Withdrawal
Ukrainian military retakes strategic southern city after Russian forces withdraw across Dnipro River
Strategic City Changes Hands After Months of Fighting
Ukrainian forces entered the city of Kherson on November 11, 2022, after Russian troops completed their withdrawal across the Dnipro River, marking Ukraine’s most significant territorial gain since the early months of the conflict.
Key Facts
- City: Kherson, population ~280,000 pre-war
- Strategic importance: Only regional capital captured by Russia
- Withdrawal timeline: Completed November 9-11
- Territory recovered: Right bank of Dnipro River
Russian Withdrawal Decision
Russian military leadership announced the withdrawal citing:
- Difficulty maintaining supply lines across Dnipro River
- Vulnerability to Ukrainian artillery strikes
- Strategic redeployment of forces
- Civilian population safety concerns
Ukrainian Advance
Ukrainian forces approached Kherson following:
- Months-long counter-offensive in the region
- Systematic targeting of Russian supply lines
- HIMARS strikes on bridges and logistics
- Pressure on multiple fronts
Civilian Situation
The withdrawal affected local population:
- Estimated 60,000 civilians evacuated by Russian forces
- Infrastructure damage from months of fighting
- Humanitarian needs for remaining residents
- Concerns about booby traps and mines
Strategic Implications
Kherson’s recovery provided Ukraine:
- Control of key Dnipro River crossing
- Access to southern supply routes
- Symbolic victory for morale
- Platform for potential future operations
Russian Defensive Positions
Russian forces established new positions:
- East bank of Dnipro River
- Fortified defensive lines
- Artillery positions targeting the city
- Continued control of Nova Kakhovka dam
International Reactions
Global responses included:
- Congratulations for Ukrainian achievement
- Calls for continued military support
- Warnings about ongoing regional instability
- Recognition of territorial gains
Damage Assessment
Initial surveys revealed:
- Extensive infrastructure damage
- Destroyed bridges and utilities
- Mined areas requiring clearance
- Need for humanitarian assistance
Military Analysis
Defense experts noted:
- Effective Ukrainian counter-offensive tactics
- Russian adaptation to defensive strategy
- Importance of long-range precision weapons
- Challenges of river crossing operations
Humanitarian Challenges
Immediate priorities included:
- Restoration of basic services
- Medical care for residents
- Food and water distribution
- Demining operations
Continued Fighting
Despite the withdrawal:
- Artillery exchanges across the river continued
- Russian forces maintained pressure from east bank
- Front line stabilized along Dnipro River
- Ongoing military operations in the region
The liberation of Kherson marked a significant Ukrainian success but established a new front line along the Dnipro River, with continued military confrontation across the waterway.