Russian President Vladimir Putin, during his visit to China, stated that there are no plans to recapture the city of Kharkiv, clarifying that Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region are aimed at establishing a buffer zone. However, despite his remarks, Oleh Syniehubov, the regional chief, reported that at least two people were killed and 19 wounded by Russian airstrikes on the city. Putin’s comments mark his first acknowledgment of the offensive that began on May 10, causing the displacement of thousands of Ukrainians within days. Ukrainian forces are currently working to stop Russian advances in the Kharkiv region.
Earlier on Friday, Ukrainian drones carried out a significant strike on the Russia-occupied Crimean Peninsula, resulting in a power outage in Sevastopol. This attack followed another one that damaged aircraft and fuel storage at an airbase. Additionally, a refinery in southern Russia was reported to be set on fire. Putin stated that Moscow retaliated against Ukrainian shelling of Russia’s Belgorod region by launching attacks in the Kharkiv region, aiming to create a security or sanitary zone. He emphasized that Russian troops are progressing daily as planned, with no immediate plans to seize Kharkiv.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine signed two laws on Friday to bolster troop numbers, allowing prisoners to enlist in the army and raising fines for draft evasion. This controversial mobilization law is set to take effect on Saturday. The new legislation permits parole from imprisonment and enlistment for military service for individuals charged with criminal offenses, excluding those convicted of crimes against national security. In response to the escalating conflict, around 8,000 civilians from the town of Vovchansk, located near the Russian border, have been evacuated.
The Russian military’s strategy typically involves aerial bombardment to devastate towns and villages before ground troops move in. Ukraine’s military chief, Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, noted that Russia’s new offensive has extended the active hostilities zone by nearly 70 kilometers, aiming to compel Ukraine to spread its forces and deploy reserve troops. Zelenskyy mentioned that Russian forces have advanced 10 kilometers from the border in the Kharkiv region. It is crucial for Ukrainian forces to counter the Russian advances and protect the region from further incursion.
As the situation continues to escalate in the Kharkiv region, it is imperative that diplomatic efforts are stepped up to negotiate a peaceful resolution. The international community must support Ukraine in its efforts to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Both sides must engage in dialogue to prevent further bloodshed and reach a lasting ceasefire agreement. The welfare of civilians caught in the conflict must be a top priority, with humanitarian aid and support being provided to those affected by the violence. Ultimately, a sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue and compromise between all parties involved.
