Russia has taken steps to prepare referendums in parts of occupied Ukraine, ahead of claims by Ukraine’s defense officials that Kherson could be liberated by September.
A liberation of Kherson would involve a massive materiel and troop cost, which would require serious cooperation with Western allies regarding weapon deliveries. A push into Kherson, after liberating the city proper, would position Ukraine to enter Zaporizhzhia and threaten Russia’s pressure on the Donbas.
Russia’s potential referendums, now cited by Western intelligence, have resurfaced amidst reports of a growing crackdown across occupied Ukraine, despite ongoing partisan activity across the southern territories.
World Affairs International 