Zelenskyy: Situation in Vovchansk, Kharkiv Region Under Control Yet Remains Extremely Challenging

Today, May 16, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy convened a staff meeting in Kharkiv to address the ongoing situation in the region amidst Russia’s offensive in the northern part.

Zelenskyy received detailed reports from Chief Committee Oleksandr Syrskyi and commanders of the “Khortytsia” Operational-Strategic Group and the “Kharkiv” Union of Ground Forces, assessing operational tasks and needs in Kharkiv Region, particularly in the Vovchansk and Lyptsi directions. The staff extensively analyzed the combat outlook, forthcoming threats, and Ukraine’s capacity to counter Russian offensive strategies.

Zelenskyy affirmed that while the situation remains challenging, it is under control, with Ukrainian forces inflicting significant losses on the aggressor.

“As of today, the situation in the Kharkiv region is largely under control, and our soldiers are inflicting heavy losses on the occupying forces. However, this remains an extremely challenging front, so we are reinforcing our units there,” commented the President.

He underscored the continued reinforcement of units in the region. Heads of the Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR) and Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine (SZRU) briefed on Russia’s intentions, while the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) outlined counter-subversive measures. A plan of action has been devised for local authorities and security structures in the region.

On May 15, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry reported Russian troop entry into Vovchansk from the north, noting a trend toward stabilization despite ongoing heavy fighting.