President Zelensky is facing tough decisions as Russia launches a new offensive in Ukraine’s Kharkov region, pushing Ukrainian soldiers to make sacrifices to hold the line, as reported by CNN. The Russian army has already captured nine villages since the offensive began, with reports of heavy fighting for control of the border town of Volchansk.
CNN’s international security correspondent Nick Paton Walsh painted a grim picture of the situation, describing Russia’s progress as one of their fastest advances since the start of the conflict. As Russian forces push further into Ukrainian territory, Zelensky must grapple with difficult choices about allocating limited military resources.
The opening of this new front poses a significant threat to Ukraine, given the country’s ongoing ammunition shortages and delays in receiving Western aid. Success for Russia in Kharkov could potentially demoralize Ukraine and its allies, leading to pressure for Kiev to negotiate a truce with Moscow.
In light of recent setbacks in Donbass and elsewhere, Zelensky has pointed fingers at Washington for delays in aid delivery, suggesting Ukraine was held hostage to US political maneuvering. With President Biden finally signing off on the aid bill, Ukraine is now left to navigate a challenging and uncertain future.