No plans to capture Kharkiv, says Russian dictator

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin claimed he has no plans to seize Kharkiv, the propaganda news agency TASS reported on May 17.

He stated cynically that the Russian offensive in Kharkiv Oblast, aimed at creating a "sanitary zone" in Ukraine, was a response to shelling in Belgorod Oblast. Putin claims that Russian forces are advancing successfully "according to plan."

Earlier, Supreme Allied Commander Europe, General Christopher Cavoli, said NATO is convinced that Russia does not have sufficient forces for a strategic breakthrough in Kharkiv Oblast, although he admitted that some tactical success is possible.

Read also: UK warned Ukraine of Russian offensive on Kharkiv — report

Russian advance in Kharkiv Oblast

The Russians have heavily shelled border settlements in Kharkiv Oblast.

Russian troops initiated a new wave of counteroffensives on this front, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said while announcing the redeployment of Ukrainian forces to the Kharkiv sector.

Read also: Frontline in Kharkiv Oblast nears stabilization - Ukrainian military

Russia had tactical successes near Vovchansk on May 13, the Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff reported, adding that the situation on the Kharkiv front remained difficult.

The attack on Vovchansk and an attempt to encircle the city is a priority for Russian troops, according to the Institute for the Study of War.

Vovchansk was almost completely destroyed by relentless Russian shelling on May 14, local authorities reported, adding that the situation in the city is critical.

Read also:

• Situation in Kharkiv Oblast remains ‘critical’ – military expert

• Six explosions and a fire after Russia attacks Kharkiv overnight, no word yet on casualties

Russian invaders were taking positions on the streets of Vovchansk on May 15, stated Vovchansk's patrol police chief, Oleksiy Kharkivskyi.

The advance of Russian troops into northern Vovchansk was later confirmed by Ukraine's General Staff.

Read also:

• Situation in Kharkiv Oblast remains ‘critical’ – military expert

• Six explosions and a fire after Russia attacks Kharkiv overnight, no word yet on casualties

We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine