Video footage captured by Ukrainian reconnaissance units has shocked observers as it depicts Russian infantry units marching into Kharkiv without any motorised support.
The embarrassing video comes amid a renewed ground assault by Moscow’s forces in northeastern Ukraine.
According to reports from the Russian Defence Ministry, the assault resulted in the capture of five villages in the region.
Journalists in the city of Vovchansk reported extensive destruction following Russian airstrikes and barrages of Grad rockets.
While Ukrainian officials have not confirmed the capture of the villages, Ukrainian journalists have reported the takeover of several villages by Russian troops.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that fighting continues in multiple settlements, with Ukrainian forces engaged in counterattacks to protect their territory.
The Institute for the Study of War has confirmed through geolocated footage that at least one village has been seized by Russian forces. Analysts describe these recent gains as “tactically significant.”
The renewed assault has triggered the evacuation of over 1,700 civilians from settlements near the fighting.
The escalation follows increased attacks by Russia targeting energy infrastructure and settlements, indicating a concerted effort to shape conditions for an offensive.
In response to the assault, Ukrainian authorities have intensified efforts to evacuate civilians from affected areas.
However, the city of Vovchansk continues to face relentless bombardment, with reports of multiple buildings destroyed and others engulfed in flames.
The recent push by Russia in Kharkiv aims to exploit ammunition shortages and divert Ukrainian forces away from heavy battles in the Donetsk region, where Moscow’s troops are gaining ground. Analysts suggest that this strategic manoeuvre seeks to consolidate Russian control in northeastern Ukraine while weakening Ukrainian defences elsewhere.
