At the same time, Russian forces have intensified their offensive operations and gained ground in the Kupyansk area (Kharkiv Oblast) and near Pokrovsk.
ISW reported that Russian troops recently advanced in Kursk Oblast. Geolocated footage from April 13 confirms their movement southwest of Huyevo (south of Sudzha). Fighting is ongoing near Hornal and Oleshnya. Ukrainian forces successfully struck the Russian 30th Motor Rifle Regiment’s command post in Huyevo with HIMARS.
Additionally, a Ukrainian MiG-29 fighter jet targeted Russian positions in Tetkino using AASM Hammer munitions, while Ukrainian drones hit a Russian Strela-10 air defense system in Kursk Oblast.
On April 14, Russian forces attempted an offensive in Sumy Oblast but failed to achieve any success. Near the village of Vodolaha, several unsuccessful Ukrainian counterattacks were also recorded.
In the Kharkiv direction, Russian troops attacked Vovchansk and Vovchanski Khutory but were stopped by Ukrainian defenders. Several pieces of Russian armor and equipment were destroyed.
Russian forces advanced northwest of Stepova Novoselivka and began using motorcycles and buggies instead of heavy equipment. However, Ukrainian troops are actively striking behind enemy lines to slow the advance.
Fighting has intensified around Nove, Katerynivka, Yampolivka, and Torske. Despite heavy assaults, Russian troops have made no confirmed gains in those areas.
Ukrainian forces have pushed southwest of Bilohorivka (near Siversk), though Russian units also advanced west of this area. In Toretsk, Ukrainian defenders have consolidated positions — a development that ISW said was prompting Russian forces to deploy elements of the 8th Army to stabilize the front line.
Russian troops have made minor advances in Lysivka (Pokrovsk sector). The heaviest fighting is occurring near Tarasivka, Yelyzavetivka, Novotoretske, Udachne, and other settlements. Russia continues to rely mostly on small infantry groups (2–5 soldiers), having largely abandoned heavy armor due to effective Ukrainian drone activity.