Russians connect Dzharylgach island with mainland Kherson region

Russian troops have connected the temporarily occupied island of Dzharylgach with the mainland of the Kherson region near the village of Lazurne - the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The Russians filled the crossing to the island with sand to use the protected areas of the national park for military purposes. In particular, the Russian military set up a training ground there.

Dzharylgach Island is located in the Karkinit Bay of the Black Sea. The entire territory of the island and part of the adjacent water area is part of the Dzharylgach National Nature Park.

The island is home to a variety of wild animals, birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians. Among them, there are representatives of rare species and those listed in the Red Book of Ukraine. 

In March 2023, the Russians appointed a so-called "director" who authorised hunting, trapping and shooting of wild animals on the island.

The Russians also permitted fishing, mining, quarrying, construction, passenger water transport, excursions and restaurant services.