(Dan Tri) – Russia continued to win tactically significant victories in Kharkov on May 13, but seemed to be prioritizing quickly creating a `buffer zone` along the border with Ukraine rather than advancing deeper.
The war in Ukraine is having many exciting new developments (Illustration: Skynews).
Military experts at the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said that, based on the relatively rapid advance of the Russian army in Volchansk, there were also reports of some
Kyiv Independent reported that Russian troops advanced further in Kharkov, causing at least 5,900 people to be evacuated from the area since Russian forces launched a new attack, Governor Oleh Syniehubov said at a press conference on March 13.
According to the authorities, fortifications in the area have been built, strengthened after retaking the city last year, `but the situation has been and remains extremely difficult` due to Vovchansk’s proximity to the Russian border and artillery shelling
The head of the military authority of Vovchansk city, Tamaz Gambarashvili, said on May 13 that the construction of fortifications was `probably not too strict`.
The Ukrainian General Staff admitted on May 13 that Moscow forces were `partially successful` near Lukiantsi in Kharkiv as their offensive in the area continued.
War map of Ukraine in Kharkov on May 13.
Notable comments in ISW’s May 13 report:
First, Russian forces continued to make significant tactical advances north and northeast of Kharkiv on May 13 and now appear to be prioritizing the rapid establishment of a `buffer zone` along
Second, the relatively rapid pace of Russian troops’ advance into Volchansk and reports of the destruction of several bridges over key waterways suggest that Moscow forces are prioritizing the creation of a `buffer zone.`
Third, newly appointed Secretary of Russia’s Security Council Sergei Shoigu participated in the first meeting in his new capacity on May 13 amid reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin was focusing on
Fourth, President Vladimir Putin’s decision to transfer Mr. Shoigu from the position of Russian Defense Minister also seems to have opened the door for the departure of a number of individuals related to this general from the Ministry.
Fifth, Ukrainian forces are said to have carried out successful missile attacks against Russian air defense bases in Crimea, as well as quite effective drone attacks against Russian air defense facilities.
Friday, Russian troops recently made confirmed advances near Liptsy and Volchansk in the northern Kharkiv region.
Seventh, the Russian military may be increasing its efforts to recruit conscripts through the Russian Volunteer Association for the Support of the Army, Air Force and Navy (DOSAAF) as part of its mobilization through the
Hannah 
Eliana 
Martin