The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that on 4/9, its units detected a Ukrainian sabotage and reconnaissance boat moving at high speed near the mouth of the Dnieper River, seemingly attempting to land on a river island. A reconnaissance unit of the Dnepr group then deployed first-person view (FPV) drones to attack the target.
A video released the same day shows at least three Russian FPV drones attacking the boat carrying Ukrainian soldiers. The first drone forced those on board to jump into the river. The second drone hit near the port side, and the third completely destroyed the vessel.
The Russian Ministry of Defense declared the Ukrainian reconnaissance group "neutralized" in the attack.
Ukrainian officials have not yet commented on the video.
Following Russia's withdrawal from the west bank of the Dnieper River in Kherson province in 11/2022, Ukraine has repeatedly sent special forces units across the river to establish bridgeheads on the east bank, paving the way for an offensive in the area.
However, Ukrainian soldiers have admitted these efforts have limited military significance, mainly resulting in casualties and equipment losses. Controlling some islands does not make crossing the Dnieper River less dangerous, as the terrain makes it difficult for Ukrainian soldiers to dig foxholes or defensive positions.
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Dnieper River. Graphics: RYV |
Russian forces have also continuously attacked Ukrainian troop positions and equipment staging areas on the west bank of the Dnieper River to prevent river crossings. The city of Kherson, the provincial capital currently under Ukrainian control, has also been subjected to repeated attacks by Russian glide bombs, missiles, and suicide drones.
Nguyen Tien (According to RIA Novosti, AFP, AP)
