Russia’s offensive near Kharkiv ‘leaves Ukraine with few good options’ – The Times

The Russian offensive near Kharkiv has left Ukraine with few good defense options. It is estimated that Russia has deployed around 2,000 personnel in Ukraine, but it is believed that Russia has amassed approximately 35,000 troops in the region.

This information reported according to The Times.

The size of the force is likely insufficient for the capture of Kharkiv, but if Russia advances a few more kilometers, it could begin chaotic shelling of the city with field artillery. This is likely the goal of the movement towards the village of Lypcy.

The most acute problem is the advance near Volchansk, which could impede the supply of Kupiansk.

The next few weeks will be critical for Ukraine: when Western weapons arrive, will the West be willing to part with its air defense systems to protect Ukrainian cities?

Kyiv will have to decide whether the new offensive is a ploy to divert forces from the Donbas. Or whether the scarce human resources should be thrown into battle on the Russian border, where they could be struck with impunity if the US does not lift the ban on the use of its long-range missiles on Russian territory. Or to concentrate on holding Chasiv Yar.