Official statements from the Russian Ministry of Defense or verified independent military analysis

Russian Offensive in Kharkiv: Captures Villages, Heavy Shelling Reported

May 10, 2024, 12:39 PM

Russian forces have launched a significant military offensive in the Kharkiv region of northeastern Ukraine, marking a new phase in the conflict. The attack involved armored vehicles and mechanized infantry, supported by heavy artillery and tactical-combat aircraft, crossing the Ukrainian border from Russia. The offensive aimed to penetrate Ukraine's defenses, with Russian troops reportedly capturing several villages near the border and advancing approximately 1km near Vovchansk to create a buffer zone. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the start of the offensive, which had been anticipated by Kyiv for months. In response, Ukraine has mobilized reinforcements to the area. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed the capture of the villages Kotlyarovka and Kislovka and reported downing a Ukrainian Su-27 aircraft. Additionally, Russian forces heavily shelled the area and fired two S-300/S-400 missiles at the region.