Russia’s retreat from Kherson better organized than previous ones - British intelligence

The British Defense Ministry said this in its latest intelligence update posted on Twitter, Ukrinform reports.

“Russia’s recent withdrawal from west of Kherson was conducted in relatively good order compared to previous major Russian retreats during the war. During the retreat, vehicle losses were likely in the tens rather than hundreds, while much kit that was left behind was successfully destroyed by Russian forces to deny it to Ukraine,” the ministry said.

According to the British intelligence, this relative success is likely partially due to a more effective, single operational command under General Sergei Surovikin.

However, the ministry noted that the force remains riven by poor junior and mid-level leadership and cover-up culture.

“For example, in recent months two companies subordinate to the Eastern Military District fled after their commander was killed. Other officers likely lied in an attempt to cover up the incident,” the ministry said.

As Ukrinform reported, the British intelligence in one of its latest reviews reported that Russia could try to redeploy part of its forces withdrawn from Kherson region to reinforce offensive operations near Bakhmut, Donetsk region.

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