Russia launches fresh invasion as ‘saboteurs’ storm over Ukraine’s border

Fresh fighting has erupted in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine with Russian social media channels claiming that a fresh invasion has been launched in that direction.

Kyiv, however, has dismissed the reports claiming that Russian “saboteurs” had crossed the border and that Ukraine‘s military was holding the line with Ukraine‘s Defence Ministry later confirming “battles of varying intensity” were continuing.

Kharkiv’s governor, Oleh Synehubov, said that sabotage groups attempted to break into the area that Russian forces lost during a stunning 2022 Ukrainian counteroffensive but that Kyiv’s forces “confidently hold their positions” and had not lost “a single metre”.

He added that the Russian group “does not pose a threat to Kharkiv” and that “its forces are sufficient only for provocations in the northern direction”.

However, Russian military bloggers cheered on the invading forces and claimed that pitched battles were underway for villages in the border region.

Ukraine‘s Defence Ministry said in a statement: “The Armed Forces of Ukraine defend our positions in the Kharkiv region. During this day, the enemy carried out airstrikes in the direction of Vovchan using guided aerial bombs (UAB).

“With the beginning of the night, the Russian occupiers increased the fire pressure on the front edge of our defence with the support of artillery.

“At approximately 5 am, there was an attempt by the enemy to break through our defence line under the cover of armoured vehicles. As of now, these attacks have been repulsed, and battles of varying intensity continue.

“To strengthen the defence on this part of the front, reserve units have been sent. The Armed Forces of Ukraine continue to hold back the enemy’s offensive. Thank you to every soldier, sergeant and officer who displayed the necessary fortitude and bravery to defend our positions.”

Russian military bloggers reported that Moscow’s forces were attempting to take towns near the border including Ohirtseve just a few miles from Russia. These reports could not be independently confirmed.