Evacuation near Russian Border
Hundreds of people were evacuated from areas near the Russian border in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region following a surprise ground offensive by Russian forces. Kharkiv Governor Oleg Synegubov reported that a total of 1,775 people have been evacuated.
Russian Advances and Attacks
Russian forces have made small advances in the region, which they were pushed back from nearly two years ago. In the past 24 hours, there have been reports of Russian artillery and mortar attacks on 30 settlements in the area.
Ongoing Battle in Kharkiv
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that a “fierce battle” is underway in Kharkiv and emphasized the need to disrupt Russian offensive operations and regain the initiative. The region has been predominantly under Ukrainian control since September 2022.
Russian Objectives and Ukrainian Response
A senior Ukrainian military source revealed that Russian forces have advanced 1 kilometer into Ukraine, aiming to create a buffer zone in Kharkiv and the neighboring Sumy region. Ukrainian forces have intensified attacks inside Russia and Russian-held areas, focusing on energy infrastructure.
Escalation and Casualties
In a retaliatory move, Ukrainian strikes targeted an oil depot in the Russian-occupied Luhansk region, resulting in at least three fatalities and damage to surrounding homes. The escalating conflict has led to casualties on both sides.
Strategic Analysis
The US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) noted that Russia has made tactically significant gains in the region. However, the primary objective seems to be diverting Ukrainian resources from other critical sectors rather than a large-scale offensive to seize Kharkiv.
