In Kharkiv Region, the Defence Forces are anticipated to stabilize the frontline over the next few days. However, Russia is likely to initiate a new attack further north in Sumy Region, as stated by Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, in a commentary to The New York Times.
«The situation is on the brink. Every hour the situation is getting closer to critical», — the general expressed.
Similar to most Ukrainian officials and military experts, Budanov believes that the Russian attacks in the northeast aim to stretch the already thin reserves of Ukrainian soldiers and divert them from fighting elsewhere.
«Ukrainian forces will be able to strengthen their lines and stabilize the front over the next few days», — Budanov asserted.
However, Budanov also anticipated Russia’s launch of a new attack north of Kharkiv, in Sumy Region.
As a reminder, on 10 May, Russian occupation forces intensified their activities in Kharkiv Region, leading to battles. The Ministry of Defence reported the deployment of reserve units to the north of the region, prompting regional authorities to urge residents to evacuate from areas under fire.