Resumption of US aid to Ukraine forced Russia to start renewed offensive earlier

Russia was forced to start a renewed offensive in Ukraine earlier (photo: Getty Images)

Russia was forced to launch a renewed offensive in Ukraine earlier than planned due to the resumption of US aid to Ukraine, according to ISW.

Analysts note that Russian forces initiated limited offensive operations along the Russia-Ukraine border in the northern Kharkiv region on May 10.

They likely had to begin the offensive earlier than intended because of the renewed security assistance from the US. However, Russian forces deployed a limited group of personnel to conduct heavy infantry attacks to the north and northeast of Kharkiv.

By May 14, the pace of Russian offensive operations in the northern Kharkiv region had already begun to slow. It appears that Russian forces are currently prioritizing the creation of a buffer zone along the international border rather than a deeper incursion into the Kharkiv region.

Russia launched the offensive along the Kharkiv border to divert Ukrainian forces to facilitate Russian advances in other areas of eastern Ukraine. Additionally, the Russian army aims to advance within effective artillery range of the city of Kharkiv.

Frontline situation

Since the beginning of May, Russia has attempted to launch an offensive in the Kharkiv region. In addition, the Russian army has increased the number of attacks along the entire front line. According to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian Armed Forces are currently eliminating occupiers in the Kharkiv region.

One of the Russian objectives is to capture the city of Vovchansk to establish a foothold for their infantry.