Russia Launches Ground Offensive in Kharkiv: Border Push and Civilian Safety Impact
Russia Initiates Unexpected Offensive in Kharkiv, Plans to Push Border 10km Into Ukraine
Surprise Ground Offensive Following Cross-Border Attacks
After enduring numerous cross-border attacks from Ukraine, including direct drone strikes on Russian oil facilities in the last 48 hours, Russian forces have initiated an unexpected ground offensive. The aim is to penetrate the front lines in the northeastern Kharkiv border region on Friday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the new action in a briefing, stating, "Russia launched a new wave of counteroffensive actions ... Ukraine met them there with our troops, brigades, and artillery. Now there is a fierce battle underway."
Civilians Fleeing Border Areas Amidst Heavy Fighting
Witnesses have reported civilians fleeing border areas in large numbers as intense fighting continues. Moscow forces have already advanced at least 1 kilometer deep into Ukraine, in what is being described as an attempt to establish a larger 'buffer zone' to prevent Ukrainian attacks from reaching Russian territory. According to Ukraine's defense ministry, the new offensive began at 5am local time with armored vehicles leading the charge of infantry troops. The major effort is aimed at pushing the border deeper into Ukraine territory.
Ukraine Defense Officials Respond to Russian Offensive
Ukraine defense officials have claimed that the attacks have been repulsed so far, but battles of varying intensity continue. The AFP has reported, "If Moscow's advances are confirmed, it would represent the Russian military's largest land operation in the region since sending thousands of troops across the border in February 2022."
Heavy Shelling and Active Fighting in Kharkiv Region
Heavy shelling is also taking place, particularly in the vicinity of Vovchansk, a border town with a pre-war population of 17,000. The governor of the Kharkiv region confirmed that the length of the border and the settlements in it were a "grey zone" and confirmed active fighting taking place. A senior Ukrainian military source stated that Russian forces had pushed 1 km inside the Ukrainian border near Vovchansk and were aiming to push Ukrainian troops as far back as 10 km inside Ukraine to create a buffer zone.
Impact on Kharkiv and Call for Civilian Safety
Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city located near the border, has been heavily attacked by airstrikes for months, resulting in significant damage to its energy infrastructure. Ukraine regional governor Oleg Synegubov described that "Enemy shelling from various types of weapons has been intensifying in Kharkiv region in the northern area for the last day." He further confirmed at least two civilian casualties. Russian officials are also urging civilians to seek immediate safety amid the heavy border fighting.
Drone Attacks on Russian Oil Refineries
This week, at least eight Russian civilians have died in the Belgorod region after Ukraine forces sent more drones across the border. A Ukrainian drone also hit an oil refinery in central Russia’s Kaluga region south of Moscow overnight. Additionally, a drone struck an oil refinery in Russia’s republic of Bashkortostan, marking a first in the conflict. This has raised questions about the current state of Russia's anti-air defenses.
