Kherson Under Renewed Assault: Russian Forces Target Critical Infrastructure
Kherson is facing intensified attacks from Russian forces, with recent strikes specifically targeting a key bridge connecting the Korabel neighborhood and other parts of the city. Jaroslav Shanka, head of the Kherson Military Administration, stated that Russian forces demonstrate no regard for civilian targets, dismissing any notion of “Russian humanity.” He emphasized the constant nature of the attacks on the community and the city.
Photo by Oleksius Hodzenko/Ukrainian Ministry of Defense/Kerson and Antonivka Bridge
The attacks are occurring even near critical facilities, including the Kherson city hospital. Local authorities reported observing three hostile drones flying over the hospital while it was treating individuals injured in previous Russian attacks. This raises concerns about the purposeful targeting of medical infrastructure, a violation of international humanitarian law.
On August 2, Russian forces dropped two guided aviation bombs on Kherson, damaging the aforementioned car bridge, as well as private residences and a multi-story building in the Korabel neighborhood. Residents were advised to evacuate the area. A follow-up airstrike targeted the same bridge on August 3.
Olexander Tolochnikov, head of the Kherson region, stated that the repeated attacks on the bridge are intended to disrupt the logistical support for Ukrainian armed forces operating in the area. The Antonivka Road Bridge, a crucial crossing point over the dnipro River, has been a frequent target throughout the conflict, and the current attacks appear to be focused on option routes.
Background: The strategic Importance of Kherson
Kherson, a strategically important city located near the mouth of the Dnipro River, was the first major city Russia captured following the full-scale invasion in February 2022. Ukrainian forces liberated kherson in November 2022, but the city and surrounding areas remain under frequent shelling from Russian forces positioned on the eastern bank of the Dnipro. The Korabel neighborhood,situated near the river,is especially vulnerable. the ongoing attacks highlight the continued fighting in the region and the challenges faced by civilians attempting to rebuild their lives. The destruction of bridges severely hinders civilian evacuation and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
