The Facts
With Russian forces reorganizing to respond to a Ukrainian counteroffensive in the south, Ukraine's forces reportedly advanced as much as 12 mi (20 km) in a surprise attack in the northeastern region of Kharkiv – reportedly reclaiming roughly 150 sq mi (400 sq km) of territory, according to military analysts.
Ukraine's forces were reportedly driving southeast from Kharkiv city towards the Russian-held city of Izyum. According to an official from the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), Ukrainian attacks were launched on the city of Balakliya – in between Kharkiv city and Izyum – which was now "in operative encirclement and within the firing range of Ukrainian artillery."
The Spin
Anti-Russia narrative
Ukraine's long-awaited counteroffensive seems to be taking shape and it's not only making gains in the southern Kherson region – it's driving Russians out of the northeastern Kharkiv region as well. The war's momentum is shifting in Kyiv's favor.
Pro-Russia narrative
Ukraine has thrown thousands of men into the southern counteroffensive – many of which have died without making any substantial gains. Ukraine's efforts in Kharkiv will likely suffer the same fate. Is all this human loss necessary, just for the sake of a few positive headlines in the press?