A source in Russian security structures said a sabotage and reconnaissance group made up of servicemen from a ranger regiment of Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces had been uncovered in the Kharkov region.
According to the source, two Ukrainian special forces soldiers were killed in the ensuing clash. Part of the group then withdrew, leaving the dead behind.
The source told TASS that the activities of the Ukrainian SOF ranger unit were detected during the Russian advance on the Kharkov direction.
Earlier, the Russian Defense Ministry reported that Russian forces had taken control of Lukashovo and Lobanovka in the Kharkov region. The ministry said the settlements were captured by units of the Sever group of forces, which continue to expand the outer control zone and increase pressure on Ukrainian positions.
According to the ministry, fighting is currently taking place around Nikolayevka, Varvarovka, Reznikovo, Nefedovka and Chernoye. Russian units are also continuing operations for Prikolotnoye and Kotovka.
The Russian Armed Forces are also reported to be advancing in the central and northwestern parts of Dobropolye.