Russian forces have captured five villages in northeastern Ukraine, according to the Russian Ministry of Defence. Journalists in Vovchansk reported multiple buildings destroyed after Russian air raids. Ukrainian officials have not confirmed the capture of the villages, which are in a contested “grey zone” on the border of Ukraine’s Kharkiv region and Russia.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that fighting is ongoing in several villages as Ukrainian forces work to protect Ukrainian territory. More than 1,700 civilians have fled the region due to the renewed assault, which analysts believe is part of Russia’s efforts to shape conditions for an offensive.
The city of Vovchansk has been heavily targeted by Russian air raids and rockets, forcing evacuations. Journalists witnessed multiple air attacks in the city, with buildings destroyed, roads cratered, and the smell of gunpowder heavy in the air. Russian military bloggers suggest that the assault in Kharkiv is an attempt to create a buffer zone along the border.
The governor of Russia’s Belgorod region reported casualties from shelling by Ukraine’s armed forces. Ukrainian officials are reinforcing the Kharkiv region to hold off Russian forces, with heavy fighting continuing in multiple villages. Despite the situation, there is no immediate threat of a ground assault on the city of Kharkiv.
Artillery, mortar, and aerial bombardments have hit over 30 towns and villages in the region, resulting in casualties. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in combat in northeastern Ukraine.
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