Despite dashed hopes, some in Ukrainian city Kherson refuse to leave

Head of Kherson regional military administration Oleksandr Prokudin poses for a picture during an interview with Reuters, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kherson, Ukraine February 22, 2023. REUTERS/Rod Nickel

KHERSON, Ukraine (Reuters) - Vladyslav Antoniuk felt euphoric three months ago when he returned to his home city Kherson, the day Ukrainian troops rolled back in and jubilant residents waved blue and yellow flags in the main square to celebrate.

The recapture of the only regional capital Russia had seized during its invasion was the biggest triumph of Ukraine's counter-offensive in the second half of last year, lifting hopes across the country and bringing displaced residents flooding home.