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Russia Massing Troops Near Kharkiv Border for Possible Renewed Offensive, Ukrainian Military Warns

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Maryna_kulakova
Maryna Kulakova
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Russia Massing Troops Near Kharkiv Border for Possible Renewed Offensive, Ukrainian Military Warns
Ukrainian servicemen of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade take part in a military training at an undisclosed location in Kharkiv Region on May 14, 2025. (Source: Getty Images)

Ukrainian forces are observing a buildup of Russian troops near the state border in the Kharkiv sector, possibly indicating preparations for renewed assault operations.

This was stated by Andrii Pomahaibus, Chief of Staff of the 13th “Khartiia” Brigade of the National Guard, during a broadcast on Suspilne on May 21.

“The enemy is trying to move personnel closer to the line of contact to carry out at least some assault actions. Overall, they’re not succeeding,” Pomahaibus said.

“We need constant surveillance on all potentially dangerous routes leading to our forward positions. The accumulation of Russian troops near the state border clearly signals preparations for offensive operations. But our Defense Forces are fully prepared to repel any attacks.”

According to Pomahaibus, Russian forces typically employ a combined approach—using artillery, drones for both reconnaissance and strikes, and heavy equipment—alongside infantry maneuvers. “They often distract attention in one area while advancing in another,” he added.

Pomahaibus also noted that Russia has begun intensifying the use of fiber-optic-guided drones, which can reportedly operate at ranges of 15 to 30 kilometers.

“Their main buildup involves fiber-optic drones. This is a serious challenge. We are taking countermeasures, but the key advantage of these drones is that they can’t be detected or jammed by electronic warfare systems,” he explained. “Still, there are methods to counter them.”

It was previously reported that Russia has ramped up offensive operations across the entire front line, with the most critical situation unfolding in Ukraine’s Sumy and Kharkiv regions, according to Andrii Demchenko, spokesperson for the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also stated that Russian forces have begun and are continuing their offensive actions on all fronts, with as many as 70,000 troops massed near the Sumy region.

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