Russia's new military commander in Ukraine has acknowledged that the situation in areas where Moscow is conducting military operations "can generally be described as tense."

Army General Sergey Surovikin made the comment in an interview with Russian state-run television on Tuesday. He was appointed as the commander of Russian forces in Ukraine earlier this month.

Surovikin suggested that Russia may take further action in the southern Ukrainian region of Kherson. Moscow controls and claims to have annexed the area.

The general said actions regarding Kherson will depend on the military and tactical situation. He said the situation "has already become very difficult."

He added that Russia "will operate consciously and promptly," and that "difficult decisions cannot be ruled out."

The leader of pro-Russian groups in Kherson said in a video posted on social media on Tuesday that the Ukrainian side is building up forces for a large-scale offensive.

He said a decision has been made to evacuate residents in some areas because fighting could take place in their towns and cities.

Another senior leader of pro-Russian groups said in a statement that the Ukrainian military was likely to launch an attack soon.

The leader noted that Ukraine could try to retake Kherson, and called on residents to evacuate as quickly as possible.