Ukraine Denies Losing Dnipro Bridgehead as Moscow Touts Successes

Defense news ,Ukraine Russia War :- In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, there are conflicting reports about the status of the village of Krynky on the Dnipro River frontline. Russian defense minister Sergei Shoigu stated on Tuesday that Russian forces had retaken Krynky, a village seized by Ukrainian troops last year. However, Ukraine's army denies this claim, asserting that they continue to hold their positions in Krynky despite facing heavy artillery fire from Russian forces.

The situation has escalated in the lead-up to the second anniversary of Russia's invasion, with Moscow reclaiming the symbolic town of Avdiivka last week. Avdiivka's fall marked a significant turning point, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who awarded medals to pilots for their role in the operation.

Contrary to Russian assertions, the Ukrainian army maintains that Krynky is still under their control. The US-based Institute for the Study of War, relying on open-source visual evidence and reports from both sides, supports Ukraine's claim. They state that there is no observed visual evidence of recent notable Russian advances in and around Krynky.

Despite the conflicting reports, Russian military bloggers have not confirmed Krynky's full control by Russian forces. Some sources close to Moscow's forces have only mentioned a decrease in Ukrainian control in the area. The lack of consensus among various sources adds uncertainty to the actual situation on the ground.

Putin's celebration of the capture of Avdiivka underscores the gravity of the battles in the region. Both sides have incurred significant losses during months of intense fighting. Russian forces, led by army chief Valery Gerasimov, claim to have achieved their main goal of liberating Avdiivka after a lengthy period of preparation. Ukrainian forces, on the other hand, face challenges such as artillery and ammunition shortages as they resist concentrated Russian attacks on the eastern and southern fronts.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has acknowledged the difficult position of the country's forces in various areas. The lack of essential supplies, coupled with the prolonged conflict, has strained Ukraine's military capabilities. The US Congress, crucial in approving aid packages, has yet to pass significant assistance that could support Ukraine in the ongoing battle.