Strengthening defenses in Crimea “won't help” Russians - Operational Command South

This was stated by the head of the joint press center at Operational Command South, Natalia Humeniuk, who spoke on the air of the national telethon, Ukrinform reports.

"To this end, they even brought in conscripts from (Russia’s - ed.) Chelyabinsk region," she said.

According to the spokesperson, the Russians in Crimea are trying to set up a firm defense line and make sure that they are able to hold it against a potential Ukrainian offensive.

"But in reality, all this looks more like it won't help them, but they will get used to earth. Let them dig, that’s something to keep their hands busy for now," Humeniuk added.

As reported, Russian troops are retreating from the left bank of the Dnipro in Kherson region closer to Crimea, setting up additional defense positions.