Tensions escalate as Russia launches a new ground offensive near Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city in the northeast. The move is seen as an attempt to open a new front in the ongoing war, prompting fierce resistance from Ukrainian forces. 

Recent reports from Reuters indicate that Ukraine has bolstered its defenses in Kharkiv, where Russian forces have targeted the border town of Bovchansk with airstrikes and ground forces. Despite the onslaught, Ukrainian troops claim to have halted the advance of the Russian armored fleet at the border.

Addressing a press conference in Kiev, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the launch of the new front by Russia and described the ongoing fighting in Kharkiv as intense. He praised Ukrainian troops for successfully repelling the Russian advance, highlighting their resilience in the face of aggression.

Russia's move comes amidst heightened tensions, with the US and its allies reaffirming their commitment to provide military aid to Ukraine. While Moscow has not officially commented on the offensive, Zelensky warned of the possibility of a major Russian offensive in the coming months.

According to Ukrainian military officials, Russian forces have penetrated within a kilometer of the Ukrainian border near Vovchansk, prompting Ukrainian troops to retreat. The goal of the Russian forces is to create a buffer zone by pushing Ukrainian troops back up to 10 kilometers, but Ukrainian forces are steadfast in their resistance.

In addition to ground operations, Russia launched a missile attack on the city of Kharkiv, causing damage to residential areas and injuring two people. The attack underscores the escalating violence and destruction in the region, with Kharkiv bearing the brunt of increased Russian airstrikes in recent months.

As tensions escalate in the region, Russia's new offensive near Kharkiv has met with fierce resistance from Ukrainian forces. The ongoing conflict underscores the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and seek a peaceful resolution to the crisis. Meanwhile, the international community continues to closely monitor the situation and calls for an end to the violence in Ukraine.