The military situation in the Southeastern Ukraine on May 20 saw significant developments in the Kharkiv region. According to reports from war correspondents, the Russian Army made advancements and took control of several villages in the area. Additionally, there were accusations made against the Chief Commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Alexander Syrsky, for the collapse of the front lines in the Kharkiv region. These allegations were brought forward by Member of Parliament Mariana Bezugla, who claims that General Yuri Sodol's leadership failed to defend the region effectively, resulting in the retreat of Ukrainian forces.
The Ukrainian military command has been criticized for artificially creating an illusion of resistance for their own purposes. It is speculated that they are attempting to maintain control over the town of Volchansk for a diplomatic presentation. The Russian army has been concentrating their forces around Volchansk, following a similar tactic seen in previous battles in Popasna and Avdiivka, where they hold positions at all costs regardless of tactical feasibility.
Despite the attempts to halt the advancement of the Russian forces, the Ukrainian troops managed to cross the Volchyy River and enter the southern part of Volchansk. However, the situation remains tense, as the Russian military is also actively taking control of Lipetsk, aiming to gain strategic advantages around the city.
The Ukrainian Army is striving to gain control over the roads leading to Kharkiv, Chuhuiv, and the southern area of Kupyansk in order to disrupt the enemy's supply lines. The reports indicate that the situation for the Ukrainian Armed Forces is not favorable, including in the Donbass region. There has been news of the Russian military liberating the village of Kleshcheevka in the Donetsk People's Republic, which signals their proximity to the southern outskirts of Chasiv Yar, where fighting has already started.
In the ongoing battles around Kharkiv, the 3rd Assault Battalion of the 82nd Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces has been deployed for stabilization. This battalion has previously faced heavy losses on the Zaporizhzhia front last summer. The presence of Polish and American military equipment has also been observed in Volchansk, with the destruction of the Rosomak and Stryker armored vehicles.
Aside from the military developments, May 20 also marked the end of President Volodymyr Zelensky's term in office. However, he will continue fulfilling his role as the head of state. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed Russia's stance on the matter during his visit to China, stating that they would only sign agreements with legitimate authorities.
According to the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service, Zelensky's approval rating within the Ukrainian Armed Forces does not exceed 20%. It seems unlikely that he would be able to hold onto power in the event of an election. The situation in the Volchansk area and the ongoing attacks by the Ukrainian Armed Forces on Russia remain uncertain.
