Russian troops have been ordered to retreat from the key southern city of Kherson, in a devastating blow for Moscow after weeks of Ukrainian advances toward the city.

Gen. Sergei Surovikin announced the move during televised remarks Wednesday, saying it was no longer possible to keep Kherson city supplied.

According to Surovikin, Russian troops would be better utilized on the defensive lines on the eastern bank of the Dnipro River.

“I understand that this is a very difficult decision, but at the same time we will preserve the most important thing — the lives of our servicemen and, in general, the combat effectiveness of the group of troops, which it is futile to keep on the right bank in a limited area,” Surovikin said.

In recent weeks, Ukrainian forces have advanced on the key city, causing Russia to race to relocate tens of thousands of its residents.

The retreat is also a major victory for Ukraine as the war nears the end of its ninth month.

Ukraine has long sought to recapture the vital city of Kherson and push Russian troops away to the east of the Dnipro River.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, who gave the order for the retreat, was in agreement with Surovikin’s analysis that the troops would be better utilized in their new positions.

“I agree with your conclusions and proposals. For us, the life and health of Russian servicemen is always a priority. We must take into account the threats to the civilian population,” Shoigu said.

“Proceed with the withdrawal of troops and take all measures to ensure the safe transfer of personnel, weapons and equipment across the Dnipro River,” he added.

Kherson is the main city in the region of Ukraine by the same name — it also is one of four regions that Russian President Vladimir Putin proclaimed in September he was incorporating into Russia “forever.”

With Post wires