Sun Jan 25 18:21:20 UTC 2026: # Russia Claims Capture of Starytsya Amid Ongoing Battles in Kharkiv Region
The Story:
The Russian Defence Ministry announced on January 24, 2026, that its forces had seized control of the village of Starytsya in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine. This village is strategically located near Vovchansk, an area where Russian troops initiated an incursion in May 2024. While Ukrainian military sources acknowledged Russian attacks in the area, they did not confirm the loss of Starytsya. The report also mentions a Russian strike on Ukrainian drone sites and energy facilities.
Key Points:
- The Russian Defence Ministry claimed the capture of Starytsya on January 24, 2026.
- Starytsya is located near Vovchansk in the Kharkiv region, close to the Russia-Ukraine border.
- Ukraine’s military acknowledged Russian attacks but did not confirm the loss of Starytsya.
- Russia reported a strike on Ukrainian long-range drone sites and energy infrastructure.
- Fighting is concentrated in the Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia regions.
Key Takeaways:
- Russia continues to press its offensive in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions.
- The situation on the ground remains fluid, with claims and counterclaims from both sides.
- The Kharkiv region is experiencing renewed fighting, indicating a possible shift in Russian strategic focus.
- Russia is targeting Ukrainian drone capabilities and energy infrastructure, potentially aiming to degrade Ukraine’s ability to wage war.
- The capture of Starytsya, if confirmed, represents a small but potentially significant territorial gain for Russia.
First Piper 