Ukrainian units hold three districts of Vovchansk in Kharkiv Oblast, Russians push in from north and centre

Ukrainian forces are holding positions in the western, eastern and partly southern districts of Vovchansk in Kharkiv Oblast, while Russian troops are attempting to break through from the north and centre and are constantly bringing in reinforcements from Russian territory due to their proximity to the border.

Source: Viktor Trehubov, Head of Communications for Ukraine's Joint Forces, during national joint 24/7 newscast

Quote: "Ukrainian forces are present in the western, eastern and partly southern areas of the city. The Russians are trying to push in from the north and the centre, and are also attempting to bypass the city itself. So it is a zone of fairly intense fighting. The situation is further complicated by severe destruction across the city. Unfortunately, we are no longer talking about who will control the city, but who will control what is left of it."

Details: Asked whether he can see the movement of Russian reserve forces and where they are being deployed, Trehubov said the situation is largely about constant replenishment: a short supply route from the Russian border enables Russian forces to continuously bring in replacements for those killed or injured.

In response to another question about possible preparations for a wider operation along the northern border, Trehubov said there was currently no sign of this.

Background:

• On 4 December, Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, reported that Ukrainian units were continuing to hold the northern part of Pokrovsk and, through active operations, were preventing Russian forces from forming assault groups and advancing around Pokrovsk and Myrnohrad.
• DeepState, a Ukrainian group of military analysts, reported that Russian forces had advanced in Donetsk and Kharkiv oblasts, particularly within the city of Vovchansk.

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