Zelensky cancels foreign trips as Russia attacks north-east Ukraine

5 months ago 28
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Aftermath of Russian attack in Kharkiv

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Edited by Owen Amos and Nadia Ragozhina

All times stated are UK

  1. Russia says Ukraine settlements 'liberated'

    Russia said on Wednesday its forces had taken two more villages in the north-eastern Kharkiv region of Ukraine, where it launched a surprise ground offensive last week.

    "Units of the North group of troops liberated the settlements of Hlyboke and Lukyantsi in Kharkiv region and also advanced deep into the enemy defences," the defence ministry said in a statement.

    As we just reported, Ukraine says it has moved troops back from Lukyantsi.

  2. What has Zelensky said about the Kharkiv offensive?

    In a post on Facebook yesterday evening, Zelensky said the situation was "the most difficult" in the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions.

    "It is too early to draw conclusions, but the situation is under control," he said.

    "Our warriors are destroying the occupier who is trying to advance: everything is quite tense. But we have reinforced the directions, including the Kharkiv ones.

    "Many warriors — especially Kharkiv residents — have risen to defend the Kharkiv region. They are doing their job, and I thank them all for their efficiency."

    A burnt-out car after Russian shelling on Kharkiv on Tuesday

    Copyright: EPA

    Image caption: A burnt-out car after Russian shelling on Kharkiv on Tuesday
  3. Zelensky cancels foreign trips

    President Zelensky's press secretary says the president "has instructed that all international events scheduled for the coming days be postponed and new dates coordinated".

    Zelensky was supposed to travel to meet Spain's King Felipe VI in Madrid on Friday.

  4. Where is Ukraine withdrawing troops?

    A Ukrainian military spokesman says that, "in certain spots in Lukyantsi and Vovchansk areas, due to the fire impact and assault actions of the enemy, manoeuvres were carried out in order to save the lives of our soldiers, units were removed to advantageous positions".

    Border map

    Copyright: BBC

  5. Welcome to our live coverage

    President Zelensky, pictured on Tuesday

    Copyright: EPA

    Image caption: President Zelensky, pictured on Tuesday

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has cancelled all upcoming foreign trips, as his troops struggle to contain a new cross-border attack from Russian forces.

    On Friday, Russia launched a new incursion, not far from Ukraine's second city of Kharkiv.

    Ukraine has now pulled back its troops from several villages in the border region following continuous pressure, with soldiers coming under heavy fire.

    Our teams in London, Kyiv, and beyond will bring you all the latest lines and analysis.

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