**Russia Steps Up Efforts to Secure Territory on Oskil River**
Russian troops have launched intensified assaults in the Kupiansk direction, Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine‘s military said April 7. The area has been a focal point of military activity for months, with Russia seeking to reclaim lost ground and create more favorable conditions for broader offensives in Kharkiv Oblast.
**President Zelensky Warns of New Russian Offensive**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had warned in an interview with Le Figaro published on March 26 that Russia is preparing for a new offensive in Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts this spring. The warning has proven to be prophetic, as Russian forces have indeed stepped up their efforts to gain territory on the western bank of the Oskil River.
**Ukrainian Forces Repel Russian Attacks**
According to the Operational and Strategic Group of Troops “Khortytsia,” Ukrainian forces have repelled multiple infantry attacks near the villages of Kamianka, Petropavlivka, Pishchane, Nadiia, and Zahryzove. In the area around the village of Bohuslavka, Russian units – backed by armored vehicles and quad bikes – attempted to break through Ukrainian defensive lines.
**Russian Forces Transfer Manpower and Supplies**
Russian forces are reportedly trying to transfer additional manpower and supplies across the Oskil River, aiming to strengthen their position on the western side and secure logistics routes for future operations. Ukraine’s military says efforts to prevent this crossing remain a priority. “Our troops are taking active measures to prevent further advances by enemy forces,” the command reported.
**Russia’s Costly Attempts to Cross Oskil River**
In March, Ukrainian forces recaptured territory near the village of Dvorichna, about 10 miles north of Kupiansk. Officials say Russian attempts to cross the river have been costly, with some units entrenched in small groups but unable to gain firm control.
**Threats of Execution to Force Troops to Retake Positions**
Ukraine has also accused Russian commanders of using threats of execution to force troops to retake lost positions near Kupiansk, citing intelligence reports. The front line remains just a few kilometers from the city.
As Russia continues to push for territory on the western bank of the Oskil River, Ukraine’s military is working tirelessly to prevent further advances by enemy forces. The situation on the ground remains fluid and unpredictable, with both sides suffering significant losses.