Russian troops are showing signs of a retreat from the strategically important southern Ukrainian city of Kherson.

The Ukrainian military has suggested it will carefully watch the opponent's movements before advancing troops.

Ukrainian forces are continuing their counteroffensive to retake territories captured by Russia. The Ukrainians are believed to be advancing to the city of Kherson, the main city in the Kherson region.

A pro-Russian leader in the Kherson region said on Thursday that Russian forces will most likely leave for the eastern bank of the Dnipro River. The troops are currently believed to be deployed on the western bank, where the city of Kherson is located.

The leader's remark is taken as an indication that Russian forces may withdraw from areas near the city. The leader said on Friday that a 24-hour curfew was imposed on the city.

Also on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin stressed the need to evacuate Kherson residents from dangerous areas. During talks with participants at a ceremony in Moscow to celebrate Russia's National Unity Day, Putin said civilians should not suffer from bombardments and other measures related to military activities.

The Washington Post on Friday quoted Western officials as saying that Russian forces appear poised to retreat. The newspaper reported that the Ukrainian military could recapture the city soon.

Ukrainian Defence Minister Oleksii Reznikov said in a briefing on Friday that rumors about the retreat of the Russian occupiers from Kherson could be an element of a "special psychological operation," and that Ukraine carefully studies all the information. He added Ukrainian forces have been making gradual advances in Kherson.