Ukraine's leaders have made multiple statements expressing their confidence in the defence of Kharkiv, as the Russia has intensified its attacks on the Kharkiv region, near the Russian border, in the last two days.
Oleh Syniehubov, the regional governor and Ukraine's president both confirmed the situation was "fully" under control:
Moscow has claimed today that it has taken control of five Ukrainian villages in the Kharkiv region, locations near the Russian border, Russian troops were now said to be in control of Pletenivka, Ohirtseve, Borysivka, Pylna and Strilecha.
However, as we reported earlier, military experts have suggested that Russian efforts in and around the Kharkiv region may be an attempt to divert Ukrainian forces from other more critical battle zones:
Sources: Kyiv Independent, Radio Poland, X
pt