12:09 16-09-2025

Russian Forces Build Buffer Zone Amid Battles in Kharkov

Russian forces push forward in Otradnoye, Bologovka, and Dvurechanskoye as they form a buffer zone in Kharkov. Fighting also reported in Volchansk and Sinelnikovo.

Military analyst Andrey Marochko reported that Russian troops are actively working to establish a buffer zone in the Kharkov region. According to him, fighting is currently underway in three villages: Otradnoye, Bologovka, and Dvurechanskoye.

He suggested that Russian command appears intent on creating a security belt in this area between Belgorod and Kharkov regions.

Marochko noted that Ukrainian forces have already responded to the increased activity of Russian units, moving reserves from the Khatnoye sector to reinforce their positions. Despite these efforts, he described the operational and tactical situation for Ukrainian troops in the area as difficult.

Military channels further reported that on the left bank of the Volchya River in Volchansk, Russian assault groups advanced 100 meters after heavy fighting and took control of four technical buildings. West of Sinelnikovo, Russian forces pushed 300 meters deeper into the forest and seized three strongholds, despite Ukrainian attempts to reinforce the area.