Kherson region head explains call for residents to evacuate

Oleksandr Prokudin, head of the Kherson regional military administration, used Telegram to explain his recent frank comments about the deteriorating security situation in Kherson. He acknowledged that his statements about intensifying Russian drone attacks and strikes on energy and heating infrastructure may have caused anxiety or confusion among residents.

He stressed that he considers it necessary to tell adults the truth — not to frighten them, not to shift responsibility onto anyone, and certainly not to spread panic.

Situation described as most difficult

According to Prokudin, Kherson currently faces the most difficult situation in the region in terms of the enemy's advance. Critical infrastructure in the city continues to function, but he noted that even the most advanced protection cannot guarantee that a Russian guided aerial bomb will not hit the facility it is meant to shield.

For that reason, he asked residents not to ignore the danger and to evacuate if such a recommendation is issued. He urged people to disregard those who try to portray evacuation decisions as "betrayal" or an attempt to "drive out" people from the Kherson region.

Prokudin added that officials are currently working on an option to house residents of the region in boarding houses and other accommodation in safer parts of Ukraine.

The warning follows a Russian strike on August 27 on the Kherson combined heat and power plant, which caused severe damage. At that time, Prokudin had already urged residents to leave the city, saying Kherson could remain without electricity and heating for an extended period.