Russia moves pontoon units for potential Dnipro crossing in Kherson

He shared this information on Espreso TV.

"Regarding the enemy's attempts and preparations to carry out a river-crossing operation over the Dnipro River toward Kherson, I learned today that some pontoon-bridge units stationed in Crimea are now moving northward on the peninsula. Most likely, they will attempt to concentrate near the Antonivsky Bridge or adjacent front-line areas. In other words, the enemy is relocating forces and assets to strengthen their military presence. It's worth noting that they are transporting specific equipment and tools, which could suggest preparations for a river-crossing operation," said Selezniov.

He expressed doubt that such an operation could succeed due to the advantageous elevation of the Dnipro’s right bank, held by Ukrainian Defense Forces, and the expertise of Ukrainian artillery crews and drone operators. Any such attempt by the enemy is expected to result in significant losses and likely fail to establish even a small foothold on the right bank.

"Additionally, preparations on the southern Kherson front are evidenced by the redeployment of units from the 810th Guards Naval Infantry Brigade, which recently operated in the Kursk region. Furthermore, Crimean partisans report that Russian soldiers are destroying boats and vessels, understanding that crossing the river could be a one-way trip. While preparations are likely underway, the possibility of the enemy intensifying activity in southern Zaporizhzhia to disperse our forces cannot be ruled out," emphasized the military expert.

Selezniov also mentioned that a substantial Russian grouping, the Dnepr, consisting of 120,000 personnel, operates in southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions. Russian logistics remain operational, including railway connections along the northern Azov Sea coast and through Crimea, including the Kerch Bridge.

"All signs indicate that the enemy may attempt certain actions. However, I am confident they will not succeed. Even 120,000 troops are insufficient for the Russian army to effectively occupy two regional centers, whether Zaporizhzhia or Kherson. In one case, it's an industrial powerhouse, and in the other, a virtually insurmountable water barrier in the form of the Dnipro River," concluded Selezniov.

• On the morning of December 20, the Russian army conducted a massive shelling of Kherson. Residential buildings were hit, resulting in at least two deaths and multiple injuries.
• Kherson Regional Military Administration Head Oleksandr Prokudin reported that amidst the attacks, Russians are spreading panic and disinformation in the region. Prokudin also noted that Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups attempted to advance toward Kherson.