The Nova Kakhovka dam and hydroelectric station in southern Ukraine were destroyed in early June, reportedly by Russian forces. The subsequent flooding has reshaped the landscape around the Dnieper River, causing the Russian military to withdraw from some areas and potentially providing an advantage to Ukrainian forces.
Key Points:
- The flooding caused by the dam’s destruction has unveiled new maritime battle spaces and forced the Russian military to relocate troops, creating a potential opening for Ukraine.
- The reshaped terrain could provide strategic advantages for Ukrainian special operations, facilitating the movement of personnel and equipment, and enabling disruption of Russian supply lines and communications.
- The flooding could also allow Ukrainian forces to use shoulder-fired missiles to threaten Russian aircrafts, forcing them to use longer routes.
- Ukraine’s NATO partners, including the White House, have provided military aid packages, including armored vehicle-launched bridges to support potential amphibious operations across the Dnieper River.
- The counteroffensive by Ukraine is in its early stages, but special-operations forces are expected to play a vital role in efforts to reclaim the country’s land.
Continue reading at https://www.businessinsider.com/destruction-of-nova-kakhovka-dam-could-help-ukraine-special-operations-2023-6
