Russian Forces Attack Kherson, Ukraine
On December 20, Russian forces launched a surprise attack on the city of Kherson in southern Ukraine. They tried to cross the Dnipro River and take control of the city, but were unsuccessful.
The attack started at 5am with a massive artillery barrage that lasted for 40 minutes. Over 1,000 shells were fired at Kherson, causing significant damage to residential areas, buildings, homes, vehicles, and infrastructure. At least two people were killed in the attack, and several others were injured.
Ukrainian military forces defended against the attack and successfully sank Russian boats that attempted to cross the Dnipro River. The Ukrainian army also repelled a landing attempt near the Antonivskyi Bridge.
Kherson was occupied by Russian forces for nine months during the 2022 invasion, before being liberated on November 11. Despite being de-occupied, the city remains under constant threat from Russian shelling and drone attacks.
The Head of the Kherson Regional Military Administration, Oleksandr Prokudin, said that the situation is now under control, but warned that the attack was a failed attempt by Russia to reoccupy the city.
Prokudin urged residents not to panic, saying that there is no mandatory evacuation in place. However, he did advise people to be cautious and consider evacuation if necessary. He also reminded them of the “two-wall rule”, which is a safety guideline that recommends seeking shelter behind at least two walls when under attack.
The attack on Kherson came as Russian forces launched an artillery strike on the city of Kyiv earlier this month, causing damage and casualties. It’s unclear what Russia’s ultimate goal is in these attacks, but Prokudin believes it may be to spread panic and create instability in the region.