It did seem unlikely given that Russia now considers Kherson city to be Russian territory. Please do explain what this changes militarily if Ukraine controls Kherson city.

[–] basiliscos@lemmy.ml 6 points 2 years ago (1 children)

Please do explain what this changes militarily if Ukraine controls Kherson city.

Russia will have to recapture Kherson, as it is part of Russia (since Sept. 2022).

[–] yogthos@lemmy.ml 3 points 2 years ago* (last edited 2 years ago)

Now that they ran the referendum, they don't really have a choice in the matter according to their constitution. However, they can do this on their own time. There is no pressing need for Russia to do that right now. But this does tie up Ukrainian troops in order to hold it.

Russia's ultimate goal is a military victory and destruction of the Ukrainian army. If they achieve that goal then they will capture a lot more than just Kherson city.