Ukrainian military advanced 20 km ahead in Kharkiv region

The American Institute reports this for the Study of War (ISW).

Analysts say that Ukrainian forces appear to have used tactical surprise to advance at least 20 kilometers into Russian-controlled territory in eastern Kharkiv Oblast on September 7, reclaiming some 400 square kilometers.

In addition, experts believe that the occupiers could not have enough resources in the Kharkiv region since some soldiers and equipment were transferred to the Donetsk and southern directions. The Russians concentrated a significant part of their troops in the south, which allowed the Armed Forces of Ukraine to launch "localized, but very effective" counterattacks in the Izyum region.

Russian military bloggers also confirm the success of the Ukrainian troops in the Kharkiv region. In particular, the propagandists are concerned that the Ukrainians will be able to isolate part of the Russian forces and de-occupy large territories.

The ISW says the shock and candid discussion of Ukraine's success indicate the magnitude of surprise the Ukrainian Armed Forces achieved. And it seems that such actions successfully demoralize the occupiers.