Zelensky: Ukraine defends in northern Kharkiv Oblast, 'extremely difficult' situation in Donetsk Oblast

Ukrainian forces are currently engaged in defensive operations around northern border settlements in Kharkiv Oblast, as stated by President Volodymyr Zelensky in his evening address on May 11th.

Reportedly, the Russian military made an attempt to breach Ukraine's line of defense in Kharkiv Oblast on May 10th, with the fighting still ongoing the next day.

President Zelensky mentioned that battles are taking place around the settlements of Strilecha, Krasne, Morokhovets, Oliinykove, Lukiantsi, Hatyshche, and Pletenivka.

"Our troops have been carrying out counterattacks for the second consecutive day to safeguard Ukrainian territory," stated the president.

According to Ukraine's military, Moscow's troops have been contained in the "gray zone" border villages, while Russia claimed the capture of five local settlements: Pletenivka, Ohirtseve, Borysivka, Pylne, and Strilecha.

The situation is reportedly "particularly tense" in Donetsk Oblast, specifically in the Pokrovsk direction near the villages of Semenivka and Netailove.

"There are over 30 clashes occurring daily, making the situation extremely challenging," Zelensky remarked.

In addition to the ongoing defense in Kharkiv Oblast, Ukrainian forces are also defending in other directions of Donetsk Oblast, particularly around Kupiansk, Lyman, Siversk, Kramatorsk, and Vermivka.

Zelensky expressed his gratitude to each brigade for their courageous defense of positions, repelling assaults, and neutralizing Russian forces.

"Thwarting Russian offensive plans is currently our top priority."