Vovchansk, illustrative photo
Russian troops are deploying their maximum-range weapons to target the Vovchansk aggregate plant in the Kharkiv region. It was recently liberated by Ukrainian Defence Intelligence forces. This was reported on 30 September by Colonel Vitaliy Sarantsev, spokesperson for the Kharkiv operational and tactical group.
According to Sarantsev, the situation in the Kharkiv sector remains difficult as Russian forces continue to assault Ukrainian defensive positions. Vovchansk is currently the focal point of these attacks, with the aggregate plant becoming a primary target for Russian forces after its liberation. Despite not holding significant tactical value, the plant’s loss dealt a considerable symbolic blow to the Russians.
«The enemy is now using the maximum range of its weapons in this area,» said Sarantsev.
Russian forces are deploying the TOS-1A heavy flamethrower system and launching guided aerial bombs in an attempt to destroy the plant.
«The standard practice is to destroy what they couldn’t hold onto,» he was quoted saying by Ukrainska Pravda.
On 24 September, the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine announced that the Vovchansk aggregate plant had been liberated and cleared after a week-long operation. Ukrainian special forces managed to capture around 20 Russian soldiers during the mission. The Russians had occupied the plant since May 2024, with Ukrainian forces eventually surrounding and isolating them. Russian forces had relied on drone support during the occupation.
The plant also housed a torture chamber during Russia’s 2022 occupation of Vovchansk, adding to its symbolic significance.
In a separate development on 29 September, the Ukrainian Defence Forces reportedly eliminated 87 Russian troops in Kharkiv Region. Of these, 21 were killed, 65 wounded, and one surrendered.
The ongoing battle for Vovchansk highlights the broader challenges faced by both sides in this heavily contested area of Kharkiv Region.