Russians blow up Kakhovka HPP to put pressure on Ukraine, unable to wait for counteroffensive - OC South

Natalia Humeniuk, OC South press center head, told about this during the telethon.

"The Russians have deliberately destroyed a part of the structure and are resorting to manipulative tactics in order to exert pressure on the Defense Forces and Ukraine as a whole. They were unable to wait any longer and uncertain about the direction of a potential counterattack. Having understood what they had done, they are now evacuating themselves. The left bank will be the most affected, as it is geographically lower, and thus will bear the brunt of the flooding," explained Humeniuk.

Currently, the regional administration has established a technogenic headquarters and is providing appropriate guidance to the population.

"The military command has also issued a warning that, according to experts, the water level may reach a critical point in approximately 5 hours. There is no need to wait the entire 5 hours. If your area is within the flood zone, it is advisable to evacuate promptly. Gather necessary belongings and documents, remain calm, and understand that all services are actively working to minimize harm to the population," added the spokeswoman.

Humeniuk also revealed that the Russians are interfering with communication channels to hinder the dissemination of warnings, particularly on the left bank of the Dnipro River.

• On Tuesday, Russian troops detonated the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant. Evacuation of residents from vulnerable areas has begun, and the President of Ukraine has convened an emergency meeting of the Security and Defense Council.

• Energoatom stated that there could be adverse consequences for the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), but the situation is currently under control.