Kherson Evacuation Intensifies as Russian Strikes Isolate Hundreds on Critical Bridge

The only bridge linking Kherson’s Korabel district to mainland Ukraine lies in ruins after Russian airstrikes, trapping hundreds of civilians without power, water, or escape routes. As evacuation teams brave relentless shelling to rescue the stranded, fears mount that Moscow is launching a renewed offensive to reclaim the strategic city it lost in 2022.

Why is the Kherson Evacuation So Urgent Right Now?

Russian forces destroyed the sole bridge to Korabel—an island suburb of Kherson—on August 2, 2025, severing access to food, medicine, and utilities. Of the district’s original 1,800 residents, only 600 remain, mostly elderly or disabled individuals unable to flee independently. Regional officials confirm evacuation teams are navigating artillery fire and drone attacks to evacuate survivors via boats, but progress is perilously slow. As Politico reported, Russian troops now target rescue convoys in what locals describe as a “human safari,” using drones to hunt civilians.

The Dnipro River, once a lifeline, has become a death trap. Russian attempts to land troops on adjacent islands have been repelled by Ukrainian forces, but strikes on evacuation routes continue daily. Drone attacks have surged from 200 to nearly 300 per day, forcing authorities to install anti-drone nets over key roads. “Gas, electricity, and transport are gone,” said a Kherson emergency coordinator. “Every minute here risks lives.”

Is Russia Preparing a Full-Scale Assault on Kherson?

Military analysts warn the bridge destruction signals a broader offensive. Russian troops are regrouping near the Dnipro River delta, testing Ukrainian defenses with repeated landing attempts on islands. While Ukraine has thwarted these incursions, the terrain favors attackers. Crossing the Dnipro’s labyrinthine waterways would be “suicidal” for invaders, according to frontline commanders, yet Moscow appears undeterred.

The city itself endures nonstop bombardment. Once home to 300,000, Kherson now shelters just 65,000 residents facing glide bombs, mortars, and drones. Propagandists openly celebrate the bridge’s destruction, with Kremlin-linked media broadcasting footage of the attack. As one tweet by NEXTA highlighted, the strike aimed to “completely cut off” Korabel, suggesting a tactic to demoralize resistance before a potential ground assault.

International attention is crucial. With evacuations stalled by violence, Kherson’s survival hinges on immediate humanitarian corridors and anti-drone aid. Support relief efforts through verified organizations like the UN Crisis Relief and amplify #SaveKherson.

Must Know

Q: How many civilians are trapped in Korabel?
A: Approximately 600 remain, down from 1,800. Evacuations prioritize children, elderly, and disabled individuals amid constant shelling.

Q: Why target the bridge?
A: The bridge was Korabel’s only land link. Its destruction isolates residents, enabling Russia to weaken defenses ahead of a potential occupation.

Q: What risks do evacuees face?
A: Rescue boats navigate drone strikes and artillery. Russia’s “human safari” tactics intentionally target civilians and aid workers.

Q: How can the world help?
A: Donate to agencies like the Red Cross for evacuation support and pressure governments to supply anti-drone technology to Ukraine.