Ukraine has deployed reinforcements to its northeastern Kharkiv region to repel a Russian assault, signaling a tactical shift by Moscow, Associated Press reports.
Intense overnight shelling targeted the city of Vovchansk, killing one civilian and prompting evacuations. Russian forces then attempted to breach Ukrainian defenses near Vovchansk at dawn, prompting fierce battles. Ukrainian forces, aware of Russia’s buildup along the border, had anticipated the attack. The attack on Vovchansk caused extensive damage to buildings, and fighting against Russian sabotage groups continued into the afternoon.
Ukraine previously pushed Russian forces out of Kharkiv in 2022, but the current assault threatens the city again. Although Russia may not be able to capture Kharkiv without a significant buildup of troops, its assault could compel Ukraine to divert resources and send more troops to the region. The Kremlin’s forces aim to exploit Ukraine’s shortages of ammunition and manpower, intensified by dwindling Western military aid.
