British intelligence analyses situation in Dnipro delta, on Kinburn Spit

08.02.2023 10:46

Ukrinform

Since Russia withdrew its forces from the west bank of the Dnipro in November 2022, fighting and reconnaissance has continued on the complex network of islands and waterways that make up the Dnipro delta.

The UK Defense Ministry said this in its latest intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine, Ukrinform reports

According to the UK Defense Ministry, Russian forces have almost certainly used small boats to try to main a presence on key islands. However, Ukraine has successfully deployed long-range artillery to neutralise Russian outposts a number of times.

“Both sides have likely also deployed small groups on the Kinburn Spit, which commands the Dnipro Gulf,” the report says.

The UK Defense Ministry said that both sides are likely aiming to maintain a presence in these areas to control maritime access to the strategically important river and to provide warning of any attempt by their adversaries to launch a major assault across the river.

“It is highly unlikely that Russia will attempt an assault crossing of the Dnipro: it would likely be extremely complex and costly,” the report says.

As reported, Natalia Humeniuk, head of the joint coordination press center of the Defense Forces of Southern Ukraine, stated that the Ukrainian forces destroyed fortifications built by the enemy on the Kinburn Spit.