The latest developments on May 19 in Ukraine included a Russian ‘double-tap’ strike north of Kharkiv that killed six civilians, including a pregnant woman, and wounded 27 others. The attack occurred in Mala Danylivka, only 30 kilometers south of the now occupied Hlyboke village near the border. This brutal tactic of striking a target twice, targeting rescue workers in the second strike, is a well-known Russian tactic. In response, Kharkiv Oblast Governor Oleh Syniehubov condemned the attack, emphasizing that the area was where local residents were resting. The attacks in Kharkiv have intensified in recent months, forcing many residents to flee their homes, and destroying critical energy infrastructure in the city.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Navy reported that it destroyed the Russian sea minesweeper Kovrovets overnight, countering Russia’s claims of repelling strikes on occupied Crimea. This comes as part of Ukraine’s ongoing campaign targeting the Russian Black Sea Fleet, inflicting damage on their warships. The sea minesweeper Kovrovets belonged to the Project 266 Akvamarin class, detecting mines up to 150 meters deep. Following Ukraine’s successful attacks, the Russian military has withdrawn major ships from ports in occupied Crimea. This marks a significant blow to Russia’s naval capabilities in the Black Sea.
The Security Service of Ukraine, in collaboration with the country’s Unmanned Systems Forces, launched a drone attack on Russia’s Kushchevskaya military airbase and Sloviansk oil refinery plant overnight. This marks the second attack on these facilities in recent weeks, with the aim to disrupt Russia’s oil industry crucial for sustaining their war efforts. Ukrainian forces have been strategically targeting Russian military infrastructure behind enemy lines, reducing Russia’s potential to wage war effectively. The West’s stance on the war in Ukraine has been criticized as “completely nonsensical” by the UK defense secretary, highlighting delays in military aid and the impact on the battlefield.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned the “Russian terror” in Kharkiv and called for more air defense systems from Ukraine’s allies to combat the attacks. He emphasized the need for increased support for Ukrainian warriors on the front lines to ensure the defeat of Russian terror. Despite the challenges, Zelensky remains determined in the face of Russia’s ongoing offensive in Kharkiv Oblast, warning of potential further waves of attacks. The current situation underscores the urgent need for international support to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities and protect the country from further Russian aggression.
In an interview, Zelensky expressed frustration with delays in Western military aid and the perceived fear of Russia losing the war, hampering Ukraine’s ability to effectively defend itself. Despite the ongoing battles and Russian advances, Zelensky remains resolute in his calls for adequate support to secure Ukraine’s victory. The offensive in Kharkiv Oblast may be just the beginning of further waves of attacks, highlighting the importance of swift and decisive action from Ukraine’s allies to counter Russian aggression. The conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, underscoring the urgent need for solidarity and assistance from the international community to protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and uphold democratic values.
