Russian forces have reportedly captured five villages in northeastern Ukraine, according to the Russian Ministry of Defence, following a ground assault. Journalists in Vovchansk have documented the destruction caused by Russian air raids, with multiple buildings damaged.
Ukrainian officials have not confirmed the capture of the villages, which are located in a disputed area near the border of Kharkiv region and Russia. Ukrainian journalists have reported that Borysivka, Ohirtseve, Pylna, and Strilecha were taken by Russian troops on Friday, with Russia claiming the village of Pletenivka was also seized.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that fighting was ongoing in several villages, with Ukrainian forces conducting counterattacks to defend their territory. The Institute for the Study of War confirmed that at least one village had been seized, describing Russian gains as strategically important.
The assault has led to the evacuation of over 1,700 civilians from settlements near the conflict zone. Russia’s intensified attacks in the region have raised concerns about a potential offensive, with analysts noting a deliberate targeting of energy infrastructure and settlements.
The situation in Vovchansk remains dire, with continuous air raids and rocket strikes forcing residents to flee. The city has been heavily damaged, with buildings destroyed and fires raging. Russian jets have conducted multiple air attacks, causing widespread destruction and chaos.
Russian forces’ advances in Kharkiv are seen as an attempt to exploit ammunition shortages and divert Ukrainian troops from other key battlegrounds. The assault may be part of a larger strategy to create a buffer zone along the border, according to military bloggers.
While Russian and Ukrainian officials provide conflicting reports on the situation, the fighting in the Kharkiv region continues unabated. Ukrainian forces are being reinforced to repel Russian advances, with heavy fighting reported in multiple areas.
Despite the ongoing violence, officials in Kharkiv assure residents that the situation is under control and there is no immediate threat to the city. Artillery and aerial bombardments have caused casualties and damage in numerous towns and villages, raising concerns about the escalating conflict.