BBC News:-
Ukraine has “likely won the battle of Kharkiv” – according to the Institute for the Study of War.
In its latest assessment of the conflict, the respected military analysts say Russia was prevented from encircling Ukraine’s second city – and has now given up on attempts to do so.
Kharkiv, in the north east, is sometimes called a fortress city. In this war, it has earned that name.
Since the start of the invasion, capturing it has been a key strategic aim of Russian forces.
But more than two months in, not only have they failed to do so – but according to the US-based think tank – they have abandoned the attempt all together.
Ukrainian troops are believed to have pushed them back to the international border, with claims their proxy forces – those from the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk “people’s republics” – are being delayed from entering Russia.
But, this does not appear to be a full-blown retreat – as was seen around the capital Kyiv.
An important moment in the war, rather than a turning point.
