Russian forces may be preparing an offensive on Kherson during the ceasefire

Russian occupation forces may use the humanitarian ceasefire in the area of Oleshky in the Kherson region to prepare a new offensive on Kherson. Ukrainian military personnel have raised this possibility, reporting movements of Russian units and the construction of positions near the Dnieper.

These concerns are based on servicemen’s accounts and drone footage. In their assessment, the footage shows signs of active military preparations. At the same time, the accounts provided do not confirm that a decision to attack has already been made.

The ceasefire in the area of Oleshky was introduced for humanitarian purposes: to deliver aid to civilians and carry out an evacuation. A Ukrainian delegation has set off toward the city to carry out the humanitarian mission. The aid delivery is planned for October 30.

The routes needed to bring in aid are still being cleared of mines. In particular, Russian troops are demining the road between Oleshky and Radensk. Because of the danger involved in traveling along it, the route has been called the “road of death.” The evacuation is planned to take place while the local ceasefire is in effect.

At the same time, Ukrainian servicemen describe the following movements and activities by Russian forces:

• KamAZ trucks carrying troops regularly travel along roads in the Dnieper area;
• anti-drone nets are being installed in the industrial zone of Kakhovka;
• drone teams are being moved closer to the river;
• Grad multiple-launch rocket systems are being deployed in the forest near Radensk, shelters are being reinforced, and trees are being cut down.

One Ukrainian serviceman believes these actions may indicate preparations for a large-scale operation. According to servicemen, Russian forces may be trying to strengthen their positions along the Dnieper and considering options for crossing the river.

Oleshky is located on the left bank of the Dnieper, opposite Kherson. The city has been under Russian occupation since the first days of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. After Ukrainian forces liberated Kherson in November 2022, the river became the line dividing the sides along this section of the front.

About 2,000 people still remain in Oleshky. Because they have no internet access, information about the planned departure is not reaching all residents. Registration is required to be added to the evacuation lists.

Only people are allowed to leave — they cannot take their pets with them. Those who cannot leave or do not know about the evacuation remain in extremely difficult conditions.

Ukrainian servicemen fear an escalation on the Kherson front after the ceasefire ends on November 1. However, the accounts provided do not allow independent confirmation of the forecast that Russia is preparing a major offensive.

We previously reported:

• Russians announce a ceasefire near Oleshky: Mykolaiv serviceman warns of a possible trap
• An evacuation route may open in blockaded Oleshky: what is known about the ceasefire
• Is a new offensive on Kherson being prepared? The Ukrainian Navy responds to alarming rumors
• Occupiers are throwing troops into an assault across the Dnieper — they want to establish a foothold on the right bank!
• “Pontoon trap”: why is Russia rushing to the Kherson front?