Russian troops are storming AFU positions in Kharkiv region south-east of Hlyboke to open the way to Lyptsi, Ukrainian media report.
Meanwhile, the Russians continue to advance in a block of high-rise buildings in Vovchansk. Assault units of the Sever (North) group of troops are storming the Aggregate Plant and the high-rise neighbourhood, according to Ukrainian media. In the meantime, the AFU unsuccessfully tried to counter-attack from the woods at the bend of the Vovcha River.
Ukrainian forces are reportedly actively throwing their best reserves into the counter-attack, constantly pulling new forces to the area. However, they are experiencing difficulties in moving troops due to the operations of Russian Lancet drones.
At the same time, the Ukrainian authorities are trying to hastily settle the scandal over embezzled funds for the construction of fortifications in Kharkiv region. The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) and the State Bureau of Investigation charged the commander of the regional directorate of the South territorial defence forces, according to Ukrainian media.
The official reportedly engaged three servicemen who spent more than a year building him a house, while receiving extra payments for allegedly performing combat tasks on the front line. According to the charges, the commander faces up to 12 years in prison.
Search for allies
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is visiting a number of countries around the globe in an attempt to attract them to the Swiss peace conference to be held on June 15-16. On Monday, Zelensky visited the Philippines as part of his search for partners among the so-called Global South. However, despite the promise of several nations to attend the summit, the refusal of China and Saudi Arabia to participate has a strong impact on the decision of other nations.
Pakistan is reportedly unlikely to attend due to its policy of neutrality. At the same time, US President Joe Biden will also not attend the meeting as he is scheduled to have a fundraiser for the US election with Hollywood star Julia Roberts instead.
China’s non-appearance disappointed Kyiv and prompted a sharp rebuke from Zelensky. He accused Beijing of pressuring countries to boycott the peace conference, warning that supporting the war would only prolong it.
