The conflict in Ukraine rages on with renewed vigor, Russian forces intensify their offensive, attempting to seize the initiative on the battlefield.
In the Kharkiv region, at approximately 5 a.m. local time, Russian forces tried to pierce through Ukraine’s defenses but were repelled, as confirmed by Oleh Syniehubov, who asserted that “the armed forces of Ukraine confidently hold their positions” and “not a single meter has been lost.” Russian shelling of Vovchansk, in the Kharkiv area, has killed one civilian and injured another five, according to the region’s governor. Another was killed in a nearby village.
With President Putin exploiting Ukraine’s armament shortages to enhance his offensive operations in the Donbas. These tactics have seen Russian forces capturing numerous small settlements, as articulated by military analyst Sean Bell.
The West’s ongoing support has become a linchpin for Ukraine’s resistance, with the United States recently concluding months of political deliberation to approve a substantial $60bn military aid package. Among this aid are long-range missiles, namely the US Army ATACMS. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, however, was clear that these missiles are not to be used within Russia’s borders.
In contrast, during a visit to Kyiv earlier this month, Lord Cameron announced it is up to Ukraine to decide how to use British weapons and insisted it has the right to strike targets on Russian territory—a declaration that sparked a stern warning from the Russian foreign ministry about “catastrophic” repercussions.
While Russia finances its military endeavors with revenues from oil exports and purchases munitions from countries like North Korea and Iran, Ukraine has been targeting Russia’s oil refining capabilities to constrict its revenue streams. The strategy presents a double-edged sword, as any reduction in the global supply of oil tends to boost prices, thereby indirectly affecting economies worldwide.
Yet, Ukraine continues to withstand the Russian onslaught, analysts observe Russia’s push to make headway ahead of the arrival of Western military aid. Once the aid arrives to front-line areas, ISW analysts said this will likely stymie Russia’s ability to continue the high rate of attacks and the pursuit of more gains.
Relevant articles:
– Ukraine war latest updates: Ukraine ‘repelling Russian attack’ after attempt to ‘break through’ in Kharkiv , Sky News, 05/10/2024
– Russia-Ukraine war live updates: Ukraine sends reinforcements to help beat back Russia’s Kharkiv push; drone downed near Moscow, CNBC, 05/10/2024
– Russia-Ukraine war: List of key events, day 806, Al Jazeera English, 05/10/2024
– Ukraine war latest updates: Ukraine was ‘prepared’ – after Russian forces tried to ‘break through’ in Kharkiv, Sky News, 05/10/2024