In a fresh ground assault, Russian forces have reportedly captured five villages in northeastern Ukraine, according to Al Jazeera, citing the Russian Ministry of Defence. The villages, located in a contested “grey zone” near Ukraine’s Kharkiv region and Russia, include Borysivka, Ohirtseve, Pylna, and Strilecha.
While Ukrainian officials have not confirmed the seizure, several Ukrainian journalists and reports suggest the villages fell under Russian control on Friday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged ongoing fighting in Strilecha and Pletenivka, emphasizing counterattacks to protect Ukrainian territory.
Geolocated footage analyzed by the Institute for the Study of War confirms at least one village’s capture, describing Russian gains as “tactically significant.” The renewed assault has prompted over 1,700 civilians to flee settlements near the conflict zone, as reported by Ukrainian authorities.
Russia’s intensified attacks in March targeted energy infrastructure and settlements, laying groundwork for the recent offensive. In Kharkiv, air raids and rockets continued to pound Vovchansk, leading to evacuations amid escalating tensions.
Analysts suggest Russia’s strategic aims include exploiting ammunition shortages faced by Ukraine and diverting forces from heavy battles in the Donetsk region. The assault may also signal Moscow’s intention to establish a “buffer zone” along the border, a concept previously mentioned by President Vladimir Putin.
Despite Russian claims of territorial gains, Ukrainian officials remain vigilant, bolstering defenses in the Kharkiv region. Kharkiv regional governor Oleh Syniehubov affirmed heavy fighting in multiple areas but assured residents of control over the situation, with reinforcements deployed to safeguard against further aggression.
However, the region continues to bear the brunt of artillery, mortar, and aerial bombardments, resulting in casualties. At least three people have been killed, and five others injured in attacks targeting over 30 towns and villages on Saturday, underscoring the urgency of the escalating conflict in northeastern Ukraine.
