Last week, Russia opened a new front in Ukraine, launching an offensive in the Kharkiv region. Russian troops quickly advanced several kilometers, managing to recapture several villages. They have yet to reach the central defense line east of the city, held by experienced brigades, but the situation is serious.
As The New York Times noted, by threatening Kharkiv, Russia hopes to consolidate Ukrainian resources in the region by exposing the front. Ukraine's immediate priority is stabilizing the frontline and preventing a major Russian breakthrough. However, Kyiv faces several challenges.
