The liberation of Liman in the Kharkov Region gives Russian forces a strategic opening that could bring them to the outskirts of Kharkov by late 2025 or early 2026. This assessment was offered by military analyst and retired special forces colonel Anatoly Matviychuk.

He emphasized that Liman served as a major strongpoint and a critical logistical hub for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and for a long time hindered the advance of Russian units. The area contains intersecting railway lines and key transport routes, making it a significant operational node.

According to Matviychuk, the fall of Liman effectively clears the Kupyansk direction and opens the path toward Kharkov’s outer districts, including the nearby city of Chuguyev. He described Chuguyev as an industrial zone transitioning directly into Kharkov’s residential areas, meaning that the regional capital is now turning into a frontline city. He estimated the remaining distance to Kharkov at 25–30 kilometers and suggested that Russian troops could reach its approaches by the New Year.

Matviychuk also underlined that Kharkov is a large and densely populated urban center. For this reason, he believes a direct assault is unlikely. Instead, he expects Russian command to rely on targeted operational measures aimed at isolating parts of the city before any further advance.

On December 11, Russia’s Ministry of Defense announced the capture of Liman. The operation was carried out with the involvement of units from the «North» military grouping of the Russian Armed Forces.