Ukraine has finally managed to retake control of Kherson from the shambles of Russian troops, and this is a sign of great progress for them with regards to the outcome of the ongoing war between the two countries. Kherson is one of the most important cities to both countries, due to its close geographic location to Crimea.

Out of the analysis and studies made by various researchers, Ukraine might be on the verge of emerging victorious in this war because, retaking Kherson is a big step to retaking Crimea. The peninsula is one of the most important geographical locations for both countries, and they both wish to cease control of it.

President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky visited the city days after its liberation by the Ukrainian troops, and he spoke to the soldiers gathered in the city, telling them that the country is “moving forward” and is ready to experience peace once again.

He further showed appreciation to NATO and other allies who have supported them in this war through cash and kind, adding that the high mobility artillery rocket systems (Himars) given to them by the United States has made a big difference for Kyiv.

The President also spoke to a crowd who had gathered in the main square of Kherson, some of whom donned apparels that represented the flag of Ukraine, while others were seen waving the Ukrainian flags. This illustrates how much joy the liberation of the city has brought to the citizens of Ukraine.

Since the invasion of Ukraine in the month of February this year, Kherson was the only regional capital to be captured by Russia. The capital together with three other cities were to be proclaimed by Vladimir Putin as part of Russia earlier this year in Kremlin.

Ukraine Not Interested In Attacking Other Countries

Meanwhile, when President Zelensky was asked about Ukraine’s next move and targets, he replied by saying that the country was not interested in attacking other countries’ territories.

This indicates that, the country is merely interested in winning the war and liberating itself from all the chaotic events that have taken place since the invasion by Russia. Zelensky however said that according to investigators, over 400 war crimes have been committed by Russian troops in the vicinity of Kherson. These crimes were abandoned by the troops as they retreated.

Zelensky stated that there will be justice for all the crimes committed, and the authorities also imposed an overnight curfew and restricted travel in and out of the recently liberated Kherson.

“In the Kherson region, the Russian army left behind the same atrocities as in other regions of our country, where it was able to enter. We will find out and bring justice to every murderer. Without doubt.”
Volodymyr Zelensky

Mass graves have been located in area such as Bucha, Izyum and Maruipol since the start of the war, and Ukraine has accused Russia of being responsible for these atrocities. A UN commission stated last month that war crimes had been committed in Ukraine and that Russian force were responsible for the large number of human rights -violation since the beginning of the war.

Despite the current victory of the Ukrainians, officials of Ukraine have cautioned citizens not to celebrate too much, because this was not the end of the war.