As the conflict in Ukraine continues, there have been significant developments on the ground. The northeastern region of Kharkiv has ordered local residents to evacuate due to claims by the Russian army that it is making progress in gaining territory. Despite Kyiv successfully recapturing Kupyansk city and its surroundings in a swift counteroffensive last September, Russian forces are now striking back in areas they once occupied.
Ukraine’s ability to repel Russian advances has been touted as a sign of strength, especially after regaining control over areas like Kupyansk. This recovery was bolstered by Western allies providing arms to Ukrainian troops. However, the pace of Kyiv’s counteroffensive has slowed, allowing Russian forces to make territorial gains and reassert their presence.
The Ukrainian army conceded on Thursday that the northeastern sector was presenting challenges. Army spokesman Serguii Tcherevaty acknowledged that the situation remains difficult but under control, using a phrase commonly employed by Kyiv during attacks. He noted that Russian forces are attempting to breach Ukraine’s defense lines and impose themselves.
In its daily report, the Russian Defence Ministry announced improved positions in the direction of Kupyansk. Moscow has assembled eight “Storm-Z” detachments, composed of former convicts acting under military command, for this push.
Facing the advances of Russian forces, local Ukrainian authorities have issued evacuation orders for 37 areas in the Kupyansk district, which is a crucial communications hub. These areas consist mainly of villages located near the front lines along the left bank of the Oskil River. The evacuation impacts around 12,000 people, with the process commencing immediately after the decree was signed.
For instance, in Kupyank city, where around 25,000 people resided before the war, authorities have recommended evacuation towards Kharkiv, the regional capital, due to the heightened security situation and increased bombings. Evacuations, particularly of children, have been periodically ordered by Ukrainian officials to save lives and enhance the military’s ability to defend towns from the advancing Russian forces.
Although there were no casualties reported, two civilians were injured in the village of Kindrachivka, where evacuation measures were taken. The Russian Defence Ministry’s video briefing displayed maps illustrating their troops’ proximity to Kupyansk, indicating their rapid advancement. Just this week, the Russian army claimed to have progressed three kilometers toward the city in a span of three days.
SOURCE: SOURCE: Ref Image from The Killeen Daily Herald
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