On May 7, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense released a documentary titled “The Liberation of Snake Island: New Insights and Challenges”, focusing on the events that took place on Snake Island in 2022.

The film is available on the official GUR YouTube channel.

The Operation to Liberate Snake Island on May 7, 2022: Key Facts

The film provides a detailed account of the joint actions of Ukrainian special forces and the naval fleet during the operation that took place on May 7, 2022.

According to Ukrainian officers, this operation was the result of thorough preparation and a surprise attack on the enemy, utilizing fast boats and helicopters.

The commander of the special unit, using the call sign “Shaman”, emphasized that the Ukrainian fighters’ attack shocked the enemy.

“They did not expect our attack, and we inflicted significant losses on them,” the officer stated.

GUR noted that the battle for the island lasted most of the day, and the Russians had to deploy reserves to repel the attack. Although the Ukrainian paratroopers had to return to their starting positions, this operation proved that the island could be liberated.

Why is Snake Island Strategically Important?

Kyrilo Budanov, head of GUR, stated in the film: “This operation greatly enhanced our experience, especially during the capture and liberation of the island, as we adapted to using the equipment left by the Russians.”

GUR reminded that the subsequent liberation of Snake Island in the summer of 2022 allowed Ukraine to regain control over critical maritime trade routes.

“A Russian special forces unit was stationed there, trying to block shipping. That will no longer be the case,” Budanov emphasized.

The liberation of Snake Island was a crucial factor for the operation of the “grain corridor”, vital for the Ukrainian economy and global food security.