Russian Forces Extend Their Reach in Kharkiv Region: New Occupations and Increased Combat Activity
The Kharkiv region continues to experience escalating hostilities as the Russian aggression persists for over a year. Recent developments indicate a significant push by Russian troops into northern parts of the region, including the expansion of occupied territories and intensified attack operations. According to Ukrainian military sources and recent reports, by early July, Russian forces had captured two villages near Kupiansk and advanced closer to the border with Russia’s Belgorod region. The most notable was the occupation of the village of Milove, situated near the regional border within a small strategic bridgehead established by the Russians. The Ukrainian General Staff classifies this area as part of the southern Slobozhansky direction, along with other bridgeheads in the Vodiansk and Liptsi districts. Ukrainian troops defended against Russian assaults in the Ambarne area during the past day. On the same front, Russian forces launched multiple attacks—at least eight—involving both infantry and air strikes. Heavy fighting occurred near Vovchanskikh Khutory, Odnorobivka, Vodiane, Odravne, Okhrimivka, and Vilkhuvatka, with aviation used to target Ukrainian positions. Additionally, Russia advanced further north, seizing the village of Stroiivka, located adjacent to the Russian border in Dvorichanska community. On the southern flank of the Kupiansk direction, Russian troops moved closer to the village of Topoli as well. Reports indicate that on this front, Russian forces not only increased the number of assaults but also mobilized more troops for these attacks, further intensifying tensions in this sector.