Russian forces have made significant advances in northeastern Ukraine, capturing several villages in the Kharkiv region amid an ongoing ground assault, as reported by CNN and Al Jazeera.
According to Ukraine’s top general, Moscow has gained control of nine Ukrainian border villages in the northern Kharkiv region, following the capture of five villages in a fresh ground assault. However, Ukrainian officials have not confirmed these claims.
The situation remains tense, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stating that fighting continues in several villages, including Strilecha and Pletenivka, where Ukrainian troops are engaged in counterattacks to defend Ukrainian territory.
The recent escalation has led to the displacement of over 1,700 civilians near the conflict zones, highlighting the humanitarian impact of the ongoing hostilities.
Analysts suggest that Russia’s renewed assault, which began early on Friday morning, may be part of a broader strategy to reshape conditions for a military offensive, following earlier attacks targeting energy infrastructure and settlements in March.
The international community closely watches developments in the region, with concerns growing over the escalating conflict and its potential implications for regional stability.