The Russian attack on Kharkiv Oblast has opened a new front in the war, diverting Ukrainian forces from the hot Donbass, writes “Associated Press“.
Russian troops engaged in heavy fighting with Ukrainian soldiers around Vovchansk on Monday, putting more pressure on Kiev's forces.
Moscow's renewed northeast offensive, which began late last week, was the most significant breach on the border since the full-scale invasion began. In just two days, Moscow captured from 100 to 125 square kilometers: at least seven villages.
Vovchansk, one of the largest cities in the region, became the center of fierce fighting that engulfed the Kharkiv region. By Monday, only 200-300 residents remained there. Russian troops are approaching from three sides.
Poorly constructed fortifications and a long-term shortage of ammunition made a large-scale Russian advance in the area possible. Kremlin forces tried to divert Ukrainian troops from frontline hotspots. Russia wants to take advantage of the period in which the already approved American military aid will reach the front. It is a window of opportunity for Moscow and one of the most dangerous for Kiev in the two-year war. By intensifying offensive operations, Russia seeks to stretch Ukraine's forces and achieve a breakthrough.
The western and northern parts of the city of Vovchansk in the Ukrainian Kharkiv region fell under the control of Russian forces, TASS reported earlier today. Fighting continues in the streets of the city, reports the agency. Ukrainian forces, quoted by Reuters, however, report that the situation in Vovchansk is still under control, but they have to withdraw to new positions near the village of Lukyantsi due to heavy Russian shelling. In its daily report on the situation on the battlefield, the Ukrainian forces also reported that the number of Russian attacks in the northern part of the Kharkiv region has decreased significantly.