Russian forces have launched an attack across the border north of Kharkiv, potentially opening a new front in the war and increasing pressure on Ukraine's second-largest city. Ukraine's defence ministry reported that at around 5am on Friday, an attempt was made to break through defence lines near the town of Vovchansk using armoured vehicles, but initial assaults were repelled.
Fighting was also reported in the border villages of Strilecha, Pylna, and Borysivka, with unconfirmed claims that Russian forces advanced about 1km around Vovchansk. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated that Ukrainian forces were prepared for the attack, noting that troops, brigades, and artillery were in place, though he warned that Russia could send reinforcements.
A prominent Russian military blogger described the operation as a “reconnaissance in force” rather than a full-scale assault, with the battle zone extending 2-3km deep in some areas. The blogger indicated that attacks targeted Ukrainian artillery points to weaken defences. Russia has been intensifying operations around Kharkiv over the past month, exploiting limited Ukrainian air defences to bomb the city and encourage civilians to flee.
In response, the US announced a $400 million military aid package, including rockets, surface-to-air missiles, and armoured vehicles. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said the aid would help Ukraine fend off the Russian assault on Kharkiv, though he cautioned that Russia might make further advances in the coming weeks. “Over time, the influx of U.S. assistance will enable Ukraine to withstand these attacks,” Kirby added.
The governor of Kharkiv oblast, Oleh Syniehubov, reported heavy Russian shelling and urged residents near Vovchansk and Lyptsi to evacuate. Earlier this week, he noted a buildup of Russian forces south of Belgorod. Analysts suggest that the attack may be aimed at forcing Ukraine to move reserves to the region, while the main Russian offensive remains focused on the Donbas and the town of Chasiv Yar.
