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Russian occupation forces have moved part of their forces across the Oskil River in Kharkiv region and are trying to gain a foothold on the opposite bank. This was reported by Viktor Tregubov, a spokesman for the Khortytsia operational and strategic group of troops, in a commentary to Radio Liberty.

How did the Russians force Oskil?

According to Tregubov, the enemy took advantage of the frozen river to transport personnel and equipment. However, now that the ice has begun to melt, the occupiers are trying to deliver reinforcements in small boats, which significantly complicates their capabilities.

“The Russians used the opportunity to move some of their forces across the ice, and now the task of the Ukrainians is to drive them out. They are trying to throw new units along the river itself in small boats, but this is not the scale they had before,” Tregubov said.

Why is this important?

The Oskil River is a natural fortification line, and its crossing greatly facilitates the advance of Russian troops deep into Ukrainian territory.

According to DeepState analysts, the bridgehead created by the occupiers in Kharkiv region could threaten Ukrainian positions in Kupiansk. If the enemy manages to hold this line, it will be able to attack Ukrainian forces from the north and reach their rear.

How does Ukraine respond?

The Ukrainian Armed Forces are actively fighting in this area, trying to push Russian units back through Oskil. According to the military, the situation is controlled but tense, and the main thing now is to prevent the occupiers from gaining a foothold.

The operational command has not yet provided details on enemy casualties or the course of the fighting, but notes that Ukrainian forces are striking at enemy crossings and equipment.

The situation in the region remains dynamic, and it will depend on the decisive actions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces whether the enemy will be able to hold its positions on the western bank of the Oskol or be forced to retreat.