Ukraine takes back Snake Island

Islam News – Russian troops have withdrawn from Snake Island, a tiny but strategic outpost in the Black Sea, after repeated assaults by Ukrainian forces, reported the New York Times.

The development is a setback for Moscow’s forces. Just a week ago, the Kremlin bragged about repelling a Ukrainian attempt to retake the island.

Ukraine’s control of Snake Island could undermine Russia’s blockade of vital shipping lanes for grain in the Black Sea, which has raised the cost of food and created the likelihood of shortages and even famines in some countries. Still, there was no indication that the Kremlin was prepared to allow safe passage of Ukrainian vessels leaving the port of Odesa.