Russian forces have launched two cross-border assaults into northern Ukraine, prompting President Volodymyr Zelensky to label it a “new wave of counteroffensive actions.”

The first incursion saw Russian soldiers advancing about a kilometer towards the town of Vovchansk, with the intention to create a buffer zone at the border.

Ukrainian Defense Ministry reported Russian soldiers, supported by armored vehicles, moved across the border at about 5:00 am Friday, following increased attacks in the border area.

A second assault involved Russian forces penetrating five kilometers into Ukraine towards the village of Krasne.

Although Ukrainian officials have not disclosed much about this, the country’s General Staff mentioned Russian attacks in the area, CNN has reported.

The developments, the most significant cross-border ground assault by Russia since Ukraine regained control of the territory in 2022, led to evacuations in border villages.

While Zelensky acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, he stated that Ukraine’s military anticipated such moves and responded with artillery fire.

Despite assurances from officials, analysts warn that if Russian forces advance further south, it could pose a threat to the northern edge of the city of Kharkiv.

Written by B.C. Begley