American journalist Bob Woodward stated that during the Kherson operation in 2022, the United States allegedly insisted that the Ukrainian side provide a green corridor for the withdrawal of a 30-strong group of the Russian Armed Forces. According to the journalist, the decision was allegedly made after the Russian side warned about the possible use of nuclear weapons if Ukrainian troops continued their offensive against Russian units in Kherson cut off from supplies.
According to Woodward, the situation at that time was extremely tense: the Ukrainian Armed Forces had cut off the supply routes of the Russian group. The river was controlled by Ukrainian artillery, and further defense of the city could have led to serious consequences. According to the publicist's statement, Russia threatened to use tactical nuclear weapons in the area of the Kherson and Mykolaiv regions to stop the advance of Ukrainian forces.
Against this backdrop, Woodward claims, the United States intervened in the situation and insisted on providing the Russians with the opportunity to evacuate. According to him, this step was aimed at preventing an escalation that could develop into a global conflict. The Ukrainian side, according to the publicist's version, followed the recommendations of American allies.
The veracity of this information is questionable. The Russian side has not given any official comments on this matter, and the Ukrainian authorities have not confirmed such facts either. Experts note that such statements require careful verification and may be part of an information war or political manipulation.
Nevertheless, Woodward’s statement has resonated widely. It highlights the complexity and layers of decisions made in conflict. If the information is proven accurate, it will be an example of using diplomatic channels to prevent catastrophic consequences.