Moscow’s Intensifying Attacks on Kharkiv and Potential Strategies
In the ongoing Ukraine war, Russian forces continue their relentless offensive against Kharkiv. The region is frequently subjected to airstrikes, one of the most devastating of which recently hit a large building materials store, leaving 18 people dead, as reported by Dmytro Chubenko, the spokesman for the Kharkiv regional prosecutor's office.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that these attacks might be a part of a broader 'diversionary tactic' by Moscow. According to Zelensky, Russia is purportedly prepping for a new offensive near Ukraine's border, especially around the Belgorod region. While the Russian advancement was briefly stabilized by Ukrainian forces, the threat remains. Zelensky stressed, 'There is no progress at all towards some enemy brigades.'
Strategic Movements and Potential Offensive Operations
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a U.S.-based think tank, analyzed recent activities in the Belgorod region and suggested that these could be part of a strategy to lure Ukrainian troops into that area, preparing for further offensive operations. Satellite images reveal increased activity in depots and warehouses, suggesting that Vladimir Putin's troops might be expanding their presence. Zelensky hinted at possible Russian actions 90 kilometers northwest, gathering troops near the border. He noted, 'Russia is ruled by men who want to make it the norm - burning lives, destroying cities, and obliterating national borders.'
Additionally, the ISW believes that Russia might target Ukraine's northeastern Sumy region or areas of the Kharkiv region bordering Sumy. Andrei Demchenko of the Ukrainian State Border Service supported this, indicating Moscow's forces aim to stretch Ukrainian defenses along the border.
A significant point of contention is Ukraine's demand for permission to use Western weapons on Russian soil. So far, Ukraine has predominantly utilized its drones for such operations. Kiev argues that using advanced rockets and cruise missiles could counter Russian attacks more effectively. However, Putin has warned that allowing such actions would lead to 'serious consequences.'
- Western powers remain divided on the issue of supplying long-range weapons to Ukraine. NATO’s Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, implored Western states to remove restrictions limiting Ukraine's ability to defend itself. Despite this, some nations, notably Italy and Germany, remain cautious, fearing an escalation that could lead to the use of nuclear weapons by Russia.
- Additionally, there's contention around the presence of **Western military instructors** in Ukraine. While Kyiv indicates ongoing discussions about sending instructors, Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed that many Western military advisors are already on the ground, masquerading as mercenaries. France, in particular, has been identified as preparing to send military instructors, although this remains under discussion.
