Changed situation in Kharkiv direction - General Staff reports

Photo: the General Staff of the Armed Forces spoke about the situation in the Kharkiv direction on May 19 (Getty Images)

Russian forces have reduced their activity to zero in the Kharkiv direction. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Armed Forces inflicted significant losses on the enemy in this sector of the front, according to the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

"On the Kharkiv front, the enemy did not engage in active operations. Defense forces are exerting maximum effort to fortify positions, replenish reserves, conduct reconnaissance, and keep enemy actions under fire control," the statement read.

Losses of the Russian Federation in the Kharkiv direction

According to updated data, over the past day, the total losses of the aggressor in the Kharkiv region amounted to 209 occupiers and 43 pieces of equipment. Ukrainian defenders destroyed one combat armored vehicle, four artillery systems, 11 vehicles, and 11 UAVs.

Additionally, three tanks, one combat armored vehicle, three artillery systems, and four vehicles were damaged.

Situation on the Kupiansk direction

On the Kupiansk front, Ukrainian troops are repelling an enemy attack towards the settlement of Berestove.

"The situation is under control. The Ukrainian Armed Forces are taking measures to strengthen positions on the front line and, where possible, seizing the initiative to improve tactical positions," added the General Staff.

Russian advance in the Kharkiv region

For over a week now, since May 10th, the Ukrainian Armed Forces have been repelling Russian military advances in the Kharkiv region. During this time, nearly 10,000 people have been evacuated from border areas of the region.

As President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in his evening address, this week the Ukrainian Armed Forces have been able to enhance confidence on the Kharkiv front.

Moreover, in an interview with AFP, the President noted that Russia's offensive in the Kharkiv region may only be "the first wave" of attacks.