A renewed ground offensive by Russia in Ukraine’s northeast has led to thousands of civilians fleeing the area, with intense battles resulting in Ukrainian forces withdrawing from the Kharkiv region. The clashes have seen Russian forces targeting towns and villages with artillery and mortar fire, causing significant displacement of residents. Analysts believe the Russian push is aimed at exploiting ammunition shortages before promised Western supplies can arrive at the front line.
The Russian offensive follows increased attacks in March targeting energy infrastructure and settlements, indicating a concerted effort by Moscow to shape conditions for an offensive. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has emphasized disrupting Russia’s offensive as a top priority, with Ukrainian troops engaging in counteroffensive operations in various villages.
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have captured several villages, signaling tactical gains for Moscow. Ukrainian units have reported being forced to retreat in some areas, with Russian forces gaining control over additional settlements. The Institute for the Study of War confirmed these claims and described the recent Russian gains as tactically significant.
The conflict in the region has a complex history, with Russia previously attempting to storm Kharkiv in the war’s early days but ultimately being pushed out by Ukraine’s army. The bold counterattack by Ukrainian forces in Kharkiv helped garner Western support for Ukraine in the conflict against Russia. As the fighting continues in the northeast, the situation remains fluid, with both sides vying for control of key strategic locations.
Source
Photo credit apnews.com
