Russian forces gear up for major assault on Kharkiv

"The operational situation in the Kharkiv direction has not undergone significant changes and remains difficult. Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to hold back the attack of Russian occupying forces," informed the press service of the Operational-Tactical Group "Kharkiv" on Telegram.

According to the Ukrainian statement, Russian forces in Vovchansk and Hlyboke in the Kharkiv region are replenishing their personnel and strengthening units at advanced positions. Simultaneously, the aggressor is conducting engineering work aimed at destroying Ukrainian fortifications.

Volodymyr Dekhtiarov, spokesperson for the "Kharitia" Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine, said in an interview with Ukrainian television that Russian soldiers around Vovchansk are digging tunnels and deploying mines. "They regularly use this tactic. It probably suits urban and suburban battles more than forest areas. Indeed, it should be noted, they can dig," he said.

Dekhtiarov emphasized that bombing Russian positions using drones and artillery does not always yield the expected results. "And we still need to use personnel, infantry, to flush them out of those holes," he added.

The Russians also regularly attack Kupiansk, one of the most important logistics centers of the Ukrainian army in the Kharkiv region. The aggressor forces are trying to level the city. "Unfortunately, there is a significant number of bombings in Kupiansk, and if we talk about the degree of destruction through these means, it is very large," said Andrii Besedin, head of the city's military administration.

The Russians are reportedly dropping guided bombs weighing approximately 3,300 pounds on the center of Kupiansk. "The left bank has already been practically destroyed. All critical infrastructure, all civilian infrastructure that was there, has been destroyed by the enemy. And we see the tactic that the Russians leave nothing behind but scorched earth," added Besedin.