Commander's appointment seen as evidence of increasing pressure on Russian forces
The appointment of a senior Russian commander to a highly contested area of Ukraine is an indication that Russian forces are coming under increased pressure, the Ministry of Defence has announced.
In its latest defence intelligence update on X, formerly Twitter, it pointed out how Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, the deputy commander of Russian forces in Ukraine, is thought to have taken personal command of the troops currently fighting in areas of Kherson Oblast.
He replaces their former commander, Colonel General Oleg Makaevich, in the occupied areas of the southern Ukrainian province, including the eastern bank of the Dnipro River.
The MOD said: "Fighting has intensified in this area in recent weeks as Ukrainian forces have contested Russian control of the river’s eastern bank.
"Teplinsky is likely held in high regard by the Russian general staff and has experience commanding operations in the area: he was the officer on the ground in charge of Russia's relatively successful withdrawal from west of the Dnipro in November 2022."
It added: "It is almost certain that repelling Ukrainian attacks across the Dnipro and holding territory in occupied Kherson Oblast remains a high priority objective for Russian forces in Ukraine.
"Teplinsky's appointment is likely and indication of increased pressure on Russian forces defending the area."
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