Russian troops launched a rapid and forceful incursion into Ukraine’s Kharkiv Region last week, crossing the northern border and meeting little resistance from Ukraine’s defenses. As of May 18, 2024, nearly 10,000 residents had fled the region, according to regional governor reports. Entire villages were reportedly destroyed due to relentless shelling, reminiscent of early war scenes.

The incursion highlighted the Ukrainian military’s significant challenges, including exhausted forces, inadequate fortifications, and a shortage of personnel. Russian troops, bolstered by superior artillery and air power, easily breached frontline defenses, which Ukrainian troops claimed were insufficiently constructed.

Ukrainian forces managed to slow the Russian advance mid-week, though fierce fighting continued near the border. President Volodymyr Zelensky had recently stated that Ukraine was prepared for such an attack, yet the defenses failed to stop the Russian advance. A contributing factor was a prohibition on using high-precision American weapons against targets on Russian soil.

To address manpower shortages, Ukraine signed a new law allowing certain convicts to join the military, potentially adding 10,000 to 20,000 soldiers. However, those convicted of serious crimes remain ineligible.

Russia’s buildup of 50,000 troops along Ukraine’s northern border was noted, with Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov emphasizing Kharkiv’s importance in establishing a “sanitary zone.” Despite the ongoing offensive, Russia aims to demoralize Ukraine rather than achieve a grand breakthrough. Analysts estimate Russia has approximately 510,000 troops engaged in the conflict.

For residents in northern Ukraine, the recent Russian advance marked a return to the conflict’s earlier, more intense phases. The situation in Kharkiv remains unstable, with daily missile attacks taking a toll on civilians. Both sides continue to brace for further escalations.

Contributors to the report included Michael Schwirtz, Jeffrey Gettleman, Maria Varenikova, and Constant Méheut.