Thwarting Russian offensive in Kharkov is “mission 1” – DW – 05/11/2024

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said this Saturday (05/11/2024) that repelling the Russian offensive near the northeastern city of Kharkiv is, today, the “number one task” of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. “The accomplishment of this mission depends on every soldier, every sergeant, every officer,” he said during his nightly speech.

According to Defense Ministry reports in Moscow, Russian invaders took control of five border towns north of Kharkiv. This would confirm unofficial information that was already circulating in Ukraine, although Kiev officials say there was still fighting for control of the cities, which would be Strylecha, Krasne, Pilne, Borisivka and Ohritsev.

Zelensky, who defined the situation as “very difficult” but noted defensive and offensive operations in the region, “For two days our troops have been retaliating there, protecting Ukrainian territory,” the Kharkiv governor said. Said. All areas are 3 to 5 kilometers from the border line, Oleh Sinihubov said, adding, “We know what forces the enemy is using.” “

expected attack

The Russian regime claimed that in its offensive actions it managed to destroy numerous Ukrainian munitions, as well as capture 34 and kill an unknown number of soldiers. This information has not been independently verified, although Russian Telegram channels have published photographs of alleged prisoners of war.

Ukraine had been expecting a Russian attack near Kharkiv for some time and its forces were prepared for it. According to official information, its defense lines are intact. Military analysts do not see the action as a direct attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, but rather an attempt to draw Ukrainian forces away from key points on the front and put the city within range of artillery fire.

DZC (dpa, Reuters)