Anti-drone nets have begun appearing over roads in northern Kharkiv. Russian security sources told RIA Novosti that the installation of such barriers could indicate that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are preparing to defend the city.

According to the agency’s sources, the protective structures have already been spotted in Kharkiv’s northern districts. The sources link the deployment of anti-drone nets over roads to possible Ukrainian preparations for defensive operations inside the city.

Reports of the nets come amid Russian advances in Kharkiv Region. Military expert Andrey Marochko previously said that the capture of Bereznyky and Dovhenke allowed Russian forces to tighten the encirclement around Ukrainian formations near Vovchansk. In his assessment, the situation confirms a strong Russian advantage in the Vovchansk sector.

The Russian Ministry of Defense also reported the capture of Zarubynka and Hoptivka in Kharkiv Region. According to the ministry, the settlements were taken by units of Russia’s Sever Group of Forces.

The ministry also reported a strike on two launchers used to deploy long-range Ukrainian drones. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, Geran drones struck Ukrainian positions near Oleksiivka.