The advancement of Russian forces in the northern Kharkiv region has slowed down after some of Ukraine's allies permitted strikes on Russian territory, according to the head of the Pentagon, Lloyd Austin.
"What I see is a slowing of the Russians' advance and a stabilizing of that particular piece of the front," emphasized Austin.
He also said that a few weeks ago there were concerns about the possibility of a significant breakthrough by the Russian forces.
"I don't think we'll see that going forward," he added.
Austin noted that Ukrainian forces are effectively using the weaponry provided by Western partners.
"The Ukrainians have done a lot to fortify their defensive positions and are making good use of the weapons and munitions that they're being provided. And more of that will continue to flow in. And so in my view, they'll get stronger as time progresses," Austin said.
Russian advance in Kharkiv region
It should be noted that in early May, Russian forces resumed their advance from the north into the Kharkiv region. Since then, Ukrainian defenders have been repelling the enemy in this direction of the front.
As of today, Russians control a smaller part of Vovchansk. They also regularly use guided aerial bombs to strike populated areas in the Kharkiv region.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that the Russian forces have not achieved their goals in the Kharkiv region. At the same time, he announced reinforcements of the direction.