Russian offensive operations along the border of Ukraine and Russia in the Kharkiv region likely have a strategic purpose - to tie down Ukrainian forces in this direction to facilitate an advance in other areas of eastern Ukraine, according to an ISW report.
It is noted that Russian forces sought to capitalize on opportunities for advancement along several segments of the front line in eastern Ukraine due to a shortage of Ukrainian forces and equipment in recent weeks, achieving tactical successes to the northwest and west of Avdiivka, as well as intensifying efforts towards Chasiv Yar.
The resumption of offensive efforts in the northern Kharkiv region and even achieving tactically significant successes could lead the Ukrainian military command to redirect forces and equipment for defense north of Kharkiv, which could be used elsewhere.
ISW analysts note that Russian offensive efforts are likely aimed at depleting Ukraine's limited resources and exacerbating soldier shortages. The Russian military command likely hopes that this strategic attempt to divert Ukrainian forces in the Kharkiv direction will weaken Ukrainian defense overall and allow Russian forces to achieve a breakthrough in the most vulnerable area.
Russian forces are likely to try to exploit this effect across the entire theater of operations to intensify efforts to expand the breakthrough to the northwest of Avdiivka and capture Chasiv Yar.
Russian attacks in the Kharkiv region
Yesterday, May 10, the Ukrainian Armed Forces recorded attempts by Russian forces to breach the border in the northern Kharkiv region. It is noted that the Russian army was repelled with losses in personnel and equipment. However, the attempts to advance continue.
Later, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy heard a report from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, regarding the situation in the Kharkiv region. In particular, they discussed strengthening the border in the region.
More details about the situation in the Kharkiv region can be found in the article by RBC-Ukraine.
