MOSCOW: Russia announced on Tuesday a new military success in Ukraine, claiming its reclaiming of Krynky, a Ukrainian bridgehead situated on the Moscow-occupied side of the Dnipro River. The announcement comes amidst heightened tensions ahead of the second anniversary of Russia’s offensive in Ukraine, with President Vladimir Putin ridiculing Kyiv’s withdrawal from the frontline town of Avdiivka.
Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu confirmed the military operation to Putin during a televised meeting, stating that Russian forces have successfully cleared Krynky. The village had been a point of contention, with Ukraine previously establishing positions on the eastern bank of the river, crossing into the Russian-occupied territory.
Russia’s Offensive in Ukraine
Putin seized the opportunity to mock the Ukrainian army’s withdrawal from Avdiivka, characterizing it as a “chaotic flight.” Despite Kyiv’s assertion that the retreat was a strategic decision to protect soldiers’ lives, Putin described it as an unplanned and disorganized departure.
Avdiivka has been a focal point of Ukrainian resistance since 2014, making it a symbolic target for Russian forces. Moscow’s capture of the town last week, along with recent developments such as the US Congress’s blockage of military aid to Ukraine, has further bolstered Russia’s position in the ongoing conflict.
