Russia says 'fortifying' annexed Crimean peninsula

The announcement comes as Ukraine forces in recent months have been pushing a counter-offensive in the south towards Crimea and last week reclaimed Kherson

Russia said on Friday it was strengthening positions on the Crimean peninsula, annexed from Ukraine in 2014, as Kyiv's forces reclaim territory in the neighbouring Kherson region.

Moscow annexed Crimea in the wake of nationwide pro-democracy demonstrations that led to the ouster of Ukraine's former Kremlin-friendly President.

And it was used as a launching pad in February for Russian invasion, with Moscow's troops pushing north and swiftly capturing towns and cities in southern Ukraine.

"Fortification work is being carried out on the territory of Crimea under my control with the aim of guaranteeing the security of all Crimeans," the Moscow-appointed Governor of the region, Sergei Aksyonov, said.

He added that the military and law enforcement were already working in such a way to make sure Crimeans "feel safe".

His announcement comes as Ukraine forces in recent months have been pushing a counter-offensive in the south towards Crimea and last week reclaimed Kherson, the capital of the bordering the annexed peninsula.

With electrical and water supplies cut to the city following the destruction of key utilities by the retreating Russians, residents moved fast to stockpile basic supplies in the southern Ukrainian city.