Former commander of US forces in Europe, retired Lieutenant General Ben Hodges believes that when the Ukrainian Armed Forces liberate Kherson, this should be seen as an opportunity for the defenders. During an interview with Channel 24, he explained his opinion.

" - Of course, I don't know exactly how many resources the Ukrainians have. I know that the size of the army is approaching 700 thousand, possibly more.. Not everyone has yet been trained and approved, but there are no problems in manpower. Need to get enough long-range artillery and air defense. I think that the General Staff understands this and they tried to train the troops that should make a breakthrough."

He believes that the troops of the occupying forces may crumble after the fighting, which will continue over the next few weeks..

" I have a feeling we're in for some tough fighting over the next few weeks, and potentially Russian troops pouring in.. I don't see how they can improve their situation anytime soon.. However, we must provide Ukraine with everything it needs,"

[see_also ids\u003d"

Recall, President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the offensive of the Armed Forces of Ukraine continues not only in the Kherson direction.

But he noted that he " Meanwhile, the Presidential Office calls on Ukrainians living in the temporarily occupied territories to prepare for de-occupation. The minimum task is to prepare a shelter, drinking water and devices for charging phones..

At this time, the WSJ notes that the counteroffensive of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the south is moving slowly, but going according to plan.. According to experts, the defenders skillfully use the available resources, weakening the enemy in the only possible way so far..