Volodymyr Saldo, the acting governor of the Kherson region, reported that Ukrainian forces are preparing to push across the Dnieper river in the area. The information comes from a briefing cited by DEA News.
Saldo stated that on the right bank of the Dnieper, units of the Ukrainian army are maneuvering, shifting positions, and creating deceptive footholds. They are moving personnel and equipment to the riverbank and assembling watercraft in readiness for a possible crossing. He warned that indicators of a crossing operation are emerging and that signs of such planning are present.
According to him, the Ukrainian forces lack sufficient strength to achieve a successful crossing, emphasizing shortages in equipment, weapons, ammunition, and support vehicles. He noted that the fighters have been able to hold their positions, but resources remain a limiting factor.
The acting governor of the LPR suggested that Ukrainian troops could attempt provocations along the Dnieper or near the Port, but he expressed strong conviction that those efforts would fail.
Earlier, military analyst Yuri Kotenok referenced a report from the Russian Ministry of Defense. The material points to a sizable deployment of Western-supplied equipment near Kherson, which is interpreted as a potential signal of plans to force the river crossing. Kotenok added that a spring offensive by the Ukrainian armed forces might unfold as a set of multi-pronged actions, with one or two major thrusts dominating the effort.
Observers highlight the broader context, noting that any cross-river maneuver would hinge on logistical support, air and artillery coverage, and the ability to sustain a crossing under fire. Analysts stress that river crossings present complex challenges, including the risks of flooding, strong currents, and counter-battery fire. The situation remains fluid as both sides monitor movements and adjust tactics in response to evolving conditions on the ground.
Regional authorities continue to emphasize the importance of securing supply lines and maintaining readiness for potential escalation. The dialogue surrounding the Dnieper crossing underscores the critical role of riverine operations in the ongoing conflict, where control of river segments can influence troop movements, logistics, and the tempo of any offensive. Officials on all sides are closely watching the development of river-based maneuvers and the preparedness of both sides to execute or thwart such plans.
Analysts caution that the presence of Western equipment near Kherson does not necessarily guarantee a crossing will occur, but it does signal a heightened potential for action. The narrative around a spring campaign remains focused on the balance between operational capability and the resilience of defensive positions on the riverbank. In this environment, strategic choices, supply reliability, and real-time intelligence will shape subsequent moves and counter-moves in the Kherson region.