Summary of the day: Russian President Vladimir Putin framed the offensive operations in northern Kharkiv Oblast as efforts to create a “buffer zone” to protect Russian border areas, aligning with ISW’s previous assessments. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Ukrainian forces have stabilized the front in this region, with Russian forces failing to breach Ukraine’s strongest defensive lines. Russian forces have managed to stretch Ukrainian troops along a wide front, leveraging electronic warfare capabilities for tactical gains, though they lack sufficient strength for a strategic breakthrough. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces conducted significant drone strikes against Russian infrastructure in Krasnodar Krai and Crimea.
What Can I Do To Help Ukraine? This is a question I receive all the time. We at Transform Ukraine are building longer-term housing for internally displaced Ukrainians. Visit Rebuild Ukraine for how you can assist in housing a Ukrainian family displaced by the war.
Picture Of The Day
A pillar of smoke is rising from behind a house following the shelling of Russian troops in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on May 17, 2024. (Ukrinform/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Beyond Ukraine – March Towards World War
Kremlin-affiliated sources continue to allege threats to Moldovan culture by Romania and the Moldovan government, part of a broader information campaign to justify potential Russian aggression in Moldova. Russian MFA Spokesperson Maria Zakharova accused the Moldovan government of “genocide,” escalating rhetoric likely intended to justify future Russian actions beyond Moldova’s pro-Russian regions.
Situation On The Land, Sea, and Air in Ukraine
President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that, for the first time since Russia’s full-scale invasion, no Ukrainian brigades are lacking artillery shells. This improvement has been consistent for the past two months. Over the winter, Ukraine faced a severe shortage of artillery shells, partly due to delays in U.S. military aid. In January, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov stated that Ukraine could only fire 2,000 shells per day, a third of Russia’s usage. A Czech-led initiative identified and secured funding for 800,000 artillery shells for Ukraine. Zelensky highlighted that progress in shell procurement had already been made even before this initiative began.
Kharkiv Front – Initiative Russia
Luhansk Front – Initiative Russia
Donetsk Front – Initiative Russia
Zaporizhia Front – Initiative Russia
Kherson (Dnipro River) Front – Initiative None
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russian offensives in northern Kharkiv Oblast aim to create a “buffer zone” to protect border areas like Belgorod City from Ukrainian strikes, confirming ISW’s assessments. He claimed Russia has no plans to capture Kharkiv and emphasized that operations are proceeding “according to plan.” Similar claims were made before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Belgorod Oblast, bordering Ukraine’s Sumy, Kharkiv, and Luhansk oblasts, has faced frequent reports of attacks, often used by Russia for cross-border strikes on Ukraine. Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said Russia expanded its offensive in Kharkiv Oblast, forcing Ukraine to deploy more reserves.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukrainian forces have stabilized the front in northern Kharkiv Oblast, and Russian troops have not breached Ukraine’s main line of defense. He noted that Russian forces have only reached the first of three defense lines, with the third being the most fortified. Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi mentioned that Russian forces, reinforced by elements from the Leningrad Military District, launched their offensive ahead of schedule, attempting to exploit Ukrainian troop rotations.
Russian forces are likely to stretch Ukrainian troops along a wide front in northern Kharkiv Oblast, despite a slowdown in offensive operations. This expansion aims to force Ukraine to deploy reserve brigades to the frontline, helping Russia achieve strategic objectives elsewhere in eastern Ukraine. Geolocated footage shows Ukrainian forces striking Russian tanks near Sumy Oblast, highlighting the broader conflict area. Russian operations may vary in intensity but will continue to pressure Ukrainian defenses along the border.
Russian forces used advanced electronic warfare (EW) to make significant gains during their initial offensive in northern Kharkiv Oblast. This EW jamming disrupted the Starlink satellite internet used by Ukraine’s 125th Territorial Defense Brigade, causing Ukrainian troops to lose connection to drones and communications. Forced to rely on radios and phones, their reconnaissance efforts were hindered. The disruption contributed to Russia’s offensive launched with 30,000 troops on May 10. This marks the first instance of Russian EW completely disabling Ukrainian Starlink connections since the invasion began. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi noted the widening scope of Russian advances in Kharkiv Oblast, predicting tough battles ahead without a breakthrough yet.
Senior NATO commanders confirmed that Russian forces lack the troops and skills for a strategic breakthrough in Ukraine. General Christopher Cavoli stated that Russia does not have the necessary resources, supporting assessments that Ukrainian forces will “hold the line” near Kharkiv. NATO observed that Russia is preparing for a longer war but struggles with troop quality and training. Despite some improvements, Russia’s defense capabilities remain limited, consistent with previous assessments of its military challenges.
US officials reaffirmed the White House’s stance against Ukraine using US-provided weapons to strike military targets in Russia. On May 16, Defense Department Spokesperson Sabrina Singh stated that the Biden Administration maintains this position, emphasizing that the equipment should be used to liberate Ukrainian territory. This policy has created a safe zone in Russia’s border areas, allowing Russian forces to launch attacks on Ukraine and assemble equipment without interference. This restriction hinders Ukraine’s ability to defend against Russian offensives in northern Kharkiv Oblast.
Russian forces continued offensive operations near Lyptsi and Hlyboke, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline. Russian sources claimed advances near Hlyboke and Lyptsi, though these claims lack visual confirmation. Ukrainian minefields are reportedly slowing Russian progress. Russian infantry is probing Ukrainian positions, using dense forests for concealed maneuvers, and occasionally employing armored vehicles. Ukrainian forces have destroyed up to half of the Russian vehicles involved. Unspecified Russian airborne elements may be participating in these operations.
Russian forces reportedly advanced near Vovchansk, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline. Russian milbloggers claimed advances east of Tykhe and the capture of Zybyne, though these claims lack visual confirmation. A Ukrainian sergeant mentioned that Russian forces control the northern half of Vovchansk, but this is unconfirmed. Russian sources reported ongoing operations in northern and central Vovchansk and near Starytsa. Russian forces are using guided glide bombs to compensate for limited counterbattery fire, but face challenges with artillery wear and Ukrainian drone interference.
Russian forces reportedly advanced northwest of Svatove and south of Kreminna, but no confirmed changes occurred on the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna front. Russian milbloggers claimed advances west and south of Krokhmalne and towards Pishchane, as well as in northeastern Bilohorivka. These claims lack visual confirmation. Russian forces continued operations near Synkivka and Vilshana (northeast of Kupyansk), Ivanivka, Berestove, Kyslivka, Stelmakhivka, Myasozharivka, Novoyehorivka, Nevske, and Dibrova.
Russian forces continued ground attacks near Siversk, targeting areas northeast of Bakhmut. The assaults were focused near Spirne, Vyimka, and Rozdolivka.
Russian forces continued assaults near Chasiv Yar without making any confirmed advances. Attacks were reported near the Novyi Microraion in eastern Chasiv Yar; northeast near Kalynivka and Bohdanivka; east near Ivanivske; and southeast near Klishchiivka, Andriivka, and Niu York. Ukrainian forces reportedly counterattacked near Kalynivka and hold limited positions in western Bohdanivka. Russian airborne and special forces units continue to operate in the Chasiv Yar area.
Russian forces advanced northwest and west of Avdiivka. Geolocated footage from May 15 and 16 shows marginal advances southwest of Solovyove and along Neberezhna Street in western Netaylove. Russian sources claimed additional advances east of Novooleksandrivka, though this is unconfirmed. Ukrainian forces regrouped tactically in the Avdiivka area. Russian ground attacks continued near Arkhanhelske, Ocheretyne, Umanske, and Yasnobrodivka.
Russian forces reportedly advanced west of Donetsk City while continuing attacks in the area. A Russian milblogger claimed that Russian forces have reached the outskirts of Heorhiivka, though this is unconfirmed. Russian forces also continued assaults near Krasnohorivka, Paraskoviivka, Novomykhailivka, Pivdenne Mine No. 1, Vodyane, Vuhledar, and Mykilske.
Russian forces continued limited ground assaults near Staromayorske and Urozhaine, south of Velyka Novosilka, in the Donetsk-Zaporizhia border area.
Russian milbloggers claimed that Russian forces are still clearing Robotyne, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline in western Zaporizhia Oblast. Ukrainian spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk confirmed that Russian forces have not seized Robotyne. Positional fighting continues near Verbove. Russian forces are operating near Hulyaipole.
Russian forces intensified assaults on Ukrainian positions in eastern Kherson Oblast, but no changes to the front were confirmed. Ukrainian spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk reported increased attacks near the Ukrainian bridgehead in Krynky, though Ukrainian forces held their positions. There were no recent Russian assaults on Nestryha Island. Fighting continued between Oleshky Sands National Park, Krynky, and Kozachi Laheri.
Ukrainian Civilian Victims Of War
The casualty count of Ukrainian civilians in the past 24 hours:
DEATHS: 5 INJURIES: 34
- At least two civilians were killed, and another injured in Vovchansk as Russian forces continued their offensive in Kharkiv Oblast
- Explosions were reported in Odesa following a missile warning from Ukraine’s Air Force. The extent of the damage is currently unknown. At least five people were injured and taken to the hospital. The attack caused a fire and damaged infrastructure, but details are still unclear.
- Russian glide bombs struck Kharkiv, killing three and injuring 28. Two men, around 45 years old, were among the dead, and the injured included 18 men and one woman, aged 20 to 60. Four of the injured are in serious condition, while others have moderate injuries. Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov later confirmed the casualty figures.
Ukraine News
Russian forces launched 20 Shahed-136/131 drones at Ukraine, which were all destroyed by Ukrainian forces over Kharkiv, Poltava, Vinnytsia, Odesa, and Mykolaiv oblasts.
Ukraine will maintain energy supply restrictions for industrial users due to recent Russian attacks on the energy system, state-owned operator Ukrenergo announced on May 17. Moscow’s intensified missile and drone strikes have damaged several thermal power plants, including the main supplier to Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts. A large-scale attack on May 8 targeted energy infrastructure in multiple oblasts, leading to the decommissioning of at least two hydroelectric plants. Industrial restrictions will apply from 7 p.m. to midnight on May 18, while domestic users are not expected to face limits. Power shutdowns may still occur if usage exceeds limits, with schedules available online. Previous rolling blackouts were implemented on May 15 due to insufficient power plant capacity after multiple attacks since March 22.
Ukrainian Mobilization and Defense Industrial Base
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law allowing certain convicted citizens to serve in the military. The bill, passed by parliament, excludes those convicted of premeditated murder, sexual violence, drug trafficking, and crimes against national security. Lawmakers and top officials convicted of corruption are also excluded. The law permits those convicted of involuntary manslaughter to serve, except when intoxicated. This measure aims to replenish Ukraine’s Armed Forces amid the ongoing war with Russia, potentially adding up to 20,000 convicts and easing prison overcrowding.
President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law increasing fines for draft evasion and mobilization rule violations. This measure strengthens Ukraine’s mobilization efforts. Fines for military register violations now range from Hr 3,400 ($86) to 5,100 ($130), with repeat offenses costing Hr 17,000 ($430) to 25,500 ($646). Those evading military service during the war face fines of Hr 17,000 to 25,500, while officials and legal entities will pay Hr 34,000 ($860) to 59,500 ($1,500). During peacetime, fines are lower. The parliament approved the bill on May 9. Under martial law, most Ukrainian men aged 18-60 cannot leave the country due to potential military call-ups.
Starting May 18, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry will resume consular services for military-age men under updated conditions. Men aged 18 to 60 are generally prohibited from leaving Ukraine during the war. The ministry had paused new consular applications on April 23 due to a new mobilization law. Now, draft-aged men can apply for consular services with proof of draft registration. Paper documents are valid until the military’s online register launches on June 18, after which e-documents will be required. Exceptions include men returning to Ukraine, those with a child whose other parent is a foreigner, and those who are detained. The Ukrainian government does not plan to forcibly return military-aged men from the EU, though some neighboring countries may assist. Germany and Estonia will allow Ukrainian refugees to obtain or extend temporary residency permits even without valid passports.
Ukraine’s Allies
Slovenia will attend the global peace summit for Ukraine, President Zelensky announced after speaking with Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob. The summit, focusing on Zelensky’s 10-point peace plan, will be held in Switzerland on June 15-16. The leaders discussed defense cooperation and a future security agreement. Slovenia joined the G7’s security guarantees for Ukraine in August 2023. About 160 national delegations were invited, with over 50 confirming attendance. The summit aims to create a common negotiating position to present to Russia.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced that Lithuania will provide Ukraine with six AMBER-1800 radars under the German-led Initiative Immediate Action on Air Defence (IAAD). This initiative, launched by Berlin in April, addresses Ukraine’s urgent need for air defenses against Russian aerial attacks. Belgium and Canada have also pledged support. The AMBER-1800 radar, developed by Lithuanian company LitakTak, detects aerial targets and their coordinates. The delivery date and Lithuania’s total contribution were not specified. Pistorius added that Germany would support Lithuania’s demining efforts in Ukraine. Germany, now a major military aid provider, has previously supplied Ukraine with IRIS-T air defense systems. President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Ukraine needs 25 Patriot air defense systems to protect its skies.
The U.K. announced new sanctions against Russia’s “arms for oil” trade with North Korea. This follows reports that Russia supplied over 165,000 barrels of refined petroleum to North Korea in March, despite U.N. sanctions. The U.K. sanctions target three companies and one individual from North Korea and Russia. U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby confirmed the oil transfers, and U.K. Foreign Secretary David Cameron vowed to hold both countries accountable. North Korea is reportedly supplying Russia with weapons, including ballistic missiles and artillery shells.
The Council of the European Union suspended four major Russian propaganda outlets: Voice of Europe, RIA Novosti, Izvestia, and Rossiyskaya Gazeta. These outlets are accused of spreading propaganda supporting the war against Ukraine. Czechia’s government linked Voice of Europe to a Moscow-financed disinformation network in March. While broadcasting is banned, the outlets’ staff can still conduct other activities in the EU. The Council cited Russia’s systematic international media campaign to justify the war and destabilize the EU. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova warned of retaliatory measures against Western media. The EU previously banned RT and Sputnik in February 2022.
Life in Russian-Occupied Ukraine
Ukrainian and Western sources report ongoing Russian war crimes in newly occupied areas of Kharkiv Oblast. The Kharkiv Prosecutor’s Office opened a criminal case on May 17 after discovering a disabled civilian executed by Russian forces in Vovchansk. Reports indicate Russian forces are holding 35 to 40 civilians hostage in a basement, using them as human shields, and conducting interrogations. Russian snipers reportedly fired on Ukrainian officers trying to evacuate civilians.
Ukrainian officials returned an orphaned child from Russian-occupied Zaporizhia to their aunt in Ukrainian-controlled territory.
Ukraine returned four children from Russian-occupied Kherson Oblast, according to local governor Oleksandr Prokudin. Since Russia’s invasion, over 19,500 children have been abducted, with less than 400 returned. The rescued children, aged 2 to 12, were evacuated by their parents with the help of the NGO Save Ukraine. They are now receiving psychological and medical support.
Occupation authorities are resettling Russian families in occupied Ukraine, with over 7,800 Russians moving to Mariupol in the past six months. The increase is evident from the enrollment of at least 2,600 more Russian children in local schools, as part of efforts to Russify the area.
Russia News
Ukrainian forces launched large-scale drone strikes against Russian energy and port infrastructure in Krasnodar Krai and occupied Crimea overnight, according to the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). Ukrainian intelligence reported attacks on military facilities in Novorossiysk, Tuapse, and Sevastopol, targeting Black Sea Fleet ships. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed to have destroyed 123 drones and 25 unmanned boats. Strikes hit a port and fuel terminal in Novorossiysk, causing a fire at an oil refinery in Tuapse. In Sevastopol, drone debris damaged a power substation, leading to partial blackouts. This joint operation by the SBU and military intelligence demonstrated Russia’s inability to protect these key locations.
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have intercepted and destroyed 102 aerial and six naval drones, reporting no damage or casualties. Additionally, the drones hit an oil refinery in Tuapse and an oil base in Rostov Oblast on May 15, and production facilities of the Russian weapons manufacturer “Basalt” in Tula the next day.
Russian Mobilization and Defense Industrial Base
The Russian Ministry of Defense is formalizing control over irregular and volunteer forces, issuing equipment to units like the BARS detachment from Rostov Oblast.
Regional officials are encouraging lower-level officials to join volunteer units for the frontlines in Ukraine. Kamchatka Krai Governor Vladimir Solodov urged local officials to volunteer, but there is little support for the initiative.
The Russian Strela Research and Production Association announced a new drone capable of striking targets 35 kilometers away, designed to overcome electronic warfare interference and operate in reconnaissance or strike modes.
Russia’s Allies
Hungary has vetoed a Council of Europe resolution to support President Zelensky’s 10-point peace plan, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto announced. He argued that excluding Russia from peace talks renders them ineffective and called for real negotiations involving all parties. Szijjarto mentioned other plans, including a Chinese 12-point proposal, which Western leaders criticized as favoring Russia. Hungary’s veto blocked the Council’s resolution to exclusively back Zelensky’s plan, which includes the complete withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin attended the Russian-Chinese Expo and visited Harbin Polytechnic University, emphasizing economic and cultural cooperation with China. He also met with Chinese Vice Chairman Han Zheng. The US State Department expressed concerns about China’s support for Russia’s defense industry.
Russian Narratives and Propaganda
Russian President Vladimir Putin attempted to undermine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s legitimacy, claiming that Ukraine’s government originated from a Western-backed coup in 2014. Putin also questioned whether Zelensky would be considered legitimate after his term technically ends on May 20, though Ukraine’s constitution allows the president to remain in office under martial law. Ukrainian officials warn that Russia is running information operations to challenge Zelensky’s legitimacy.
Putin used his visit to China to push Russian claims of interest in negotiations over Ukraine, alleging Western coercion of Ukraine to reject a favorable agreement. He also portrayed China as a neutral mediator in the conflict, hoping for negotiations more favorable to Russia. This tactic aims to weaken Western support for Ukraine and prompt concessions on Ukrainian sovereignty.
Source Materials
Institute for the Study of War – understandingwar.org
The Kyiv Independent – kyivindependent.com
Kyiv Post – kyivpo st.com