Russian Forces Launch Surprise Attack On Northern Ukraine

Aftermath of a Russian military attack in Odesa

According to a Ukrainian military source, Russian forces have initiated a surprise attack on northern Ukraine, making small advances in what is considered the most serious cross-border ground offensive in nearly two years.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that the attack targeted the border town of Vovchansk near Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, as part of a new wave of counteroffensive actions by Russia. Zelensky described the ongoing battle in the area as fierce.

Following intense Russian shelling on Thursday night, Ukrainian reserve units were deployed to the northern Kharkiv region. The Defense Ministry of Ukraine reported that Russian reconnaissance groups, supported by armored vehicles, crossed the border around 5:00 am, penetrating 1 km into Ukrainian territory with the aim of establishing a buffer zone.

Ukrainian President confirms attack on Vovchansk near Kharkiv.

Russian forces initiate surprise attack on northern Ukraine.

Intense Russian shelling prompts deployment of Ukrainian reserve units.

The conflict, which has been ongoing in southern and eastern fronts, saw the liberation of the northern Kharkiv region in late summer 2022 after Ukrainian forces pushed back Russian troops from previously occupied territories.

Zelensky acknowledged the seriousness of the situation but stated that Ukraine's military had anticipated such a move. He mentioned that Ukrainian forces were prepared to meet the enemy with artillery fire, resulting in a fierce battle in the region.

Oleh Syniehubov, the head of Kharkiv's regional military administration, reported that Russian forces launched attacks using aerial bombs, Multiple Launch Rocket Systems, and artillery throughout the night. However, he reassured that Kharkiv city itself, located just 30 kilometers from the Russian border, was not under immediate threat.

Authorities instructed residents of border villages to evacuate, with national police assisting in the relocation process. One casualty was reported in Vovchansk, with several injuries in the nearby village of Charkaski Tyshky.

The cross-border assault follows months of increased Russian air attacks on Kharkiv, resulting in the city losing its power-generating capacity and sub-stations.