**Russia Builds Up Forces Near Ukraine Border, Threatens New Attacks in Kharkiv**
Ukraine’s military is on high alert as Russia appears to be preparing for new attacks in the Kharkiv sector. According to Andrii Pomahaibus, chief of staff of Ukraine’s 13th National Guard Khartiia Brigade, Russian forces are gathering near the border, but have so far failed to launch any significant assaults.
Speaking to Suspilne, a Ukrainian news outlet, Pomahaibus stated that Russia is trying to move its troops closer to the contact line, where fighting has been intense in recent months. Despite calls for an unconditional 30-day truce from Ukraine and its international partners, Russia continues to escalate the war effort.
This buildup of Russian forces near the border comes just weeks after Ukrainian officials reported a regrouping of Russian troops and preparations for a renewed assault on Kharkiv Oblast in April. President Volodymyr Zelensky also warned that Moscow had attempted to advance in Sumy Oblast, further pressuring Ukraine’s northeastern regions.
**Russia Rejects Ceasefire Proposals**
The Financial Times reported last week that Russia is preparing a significant offensive in Ukraine as it moves troops towards key positions on the front. However, Russian officials have rejected ceasefire proposals unless accompanied by a halt on military aid for Ukraine and continue to carry out ground assaults along the front and long-range strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure.
This development raises concerns about the prospects of a negotiated peace in Ukraine, with Russia’s continued aggression making it increasingly difficult for international diplomats to broker a lasting truce. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Ukraine’s military remains ready to defend itself against any new attacks from Russian forces.
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