Ukraine continues to face intense fighting as Russian forces attempt to advance further into the country. Key developments on May 20 include Ukrainian forces controlling around 60% of Vovchansk in Kharkiv Oblast, despite continuous Russian assaults. The town is described as almost destroyed, with Russia capturing civilians and using them as human shields. Over 10,500 civilians in Kharkiv Oblast have been evacuated from their homes due to heavy fighting, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov. President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia’s offensive in Kharkiv Oblast could be the first of several waves, potentially targeting the regional capital, Kharkiv.
Russia’s recent battlefield successes in Ukraine can be attributed to its extensive use of glide bombs, with hundreds of these weapons causing significant destruction each week. Ukrainian troops are currently repelling a Russian attack near the village of Starytsia in Kharkiv Oblast, with Russian forces focusing on other nearby settlements as well. The General Staff reported a decrease in Russian attacks in Donetsk Oblast but highlighted ongoing fighting in the Siversk sector. Ukrainian forces also targeted a Russian military base in occupied Yuvileine, Luhansk, with reports of damage to the base. Additionally, Ukrainian drones have conducted attacks on Russian oil refineries, impacting Moscow’s war efforts.
Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas addressed fears that sending NATO troops to Ukraine for training could escalate the conflict with Russia, stating that such concerns are unfounded. Some NATO member states are discussing the possibility of sending military instructors to Ukraine to assist with training and equipment repairs. Russian President Vladimir Putin was warned by the French armed forces chief that Western support for Ukraine could potentially include sending troops on the ground. However, there is debate within NATO about the potential presence of troops in Ukraine and whether it could lead to further escalation of the conflict.
Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council Secretary, Oleksandr Lytvynenko, emphasized that Ukraine understands that the war with Russia will ultimately end with negotiations. Ukraine has prepared a peace formula that includes Russia’s withdrawal from Ukraine and the prosecution of war criminals. Over 30 countries, including G7 members, have expressed support for Ukraine, with bilateral agreements being signed to provide security assistance. Lytvynenko called for modern weapons to be sent to Ukraine and urged for a NATO membership invitation for Kyiv at an upcoming summit in Washington. The goal is to achieve sustainable peace for Ukraine’s development and security.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Ukraine remains committed to seeking a diplomatic solution to the war with Russia. The country is engaged in international efforts to secure peace through negotiations and has garnered support from various countries, including G7 members. As the situation in Ukraine continues to escalate, the focus remains on defending Ukrainian territory, repelling Russian attacks, and advocating for security guarantees to support the country’s long-term stability. The involvement of NATO allies and discussions about potential troop deployments reflect the complex dynamics at play in the conflict, with ongoing efforts to find a path towards peace and resolution.
