Although Russia has opened up a new axis in Kharkiv Oblast in northeastern Ukraine, Russian attacks in eastern Ukraine remain intense. This is stated in the latest intelligence report of the Ministry of Defense of Great Britain.
It is noted that Russian forces have continued their operational focus on the axis northwest of Avdeyevka with attacks on a wide front on both sides of the E50 highway. Russian forces may have achieved a series of small tactical successes over the past 72 hours, albeit at a high cost, British intelligence says.
Latest Defense Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine – 21 May 2024.
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The E50 highway is the main line of communication between Russian-controlled Donetsk and the Ukrainian-controlled city of Pokrovsk, which remains about 30 km from the current frontline position but is likely a Russian operational target. According to the British MoD, Russian attacks in this direction are probably aimed at breaking through and dividing the Ukrainian forces in Donetsk.
North of Bakhmut, in the vicinity of the city of Seversk, Ukrainian forces reported heavy clashes with Russian forces on 18 and 19 May, with attacks on Ukrainian positions in Bilokhorovka, Verkhnokamyanskoe and Rozdolovka. Russian gains in this area remain severely limited, British intelligence reports.