Image Credits: TASS
Russian forces have reportedly targeted the Ukrainian Neo-Nazi Kraken and Aidar formations near Kharkiv in northeastern Ukraine, according to Sergey Lebedev, a representative of the pro-Russian underground resistance. Lebedev conveyed this information to the Russian state news agency TASS on Thursday.
“Russian forces have successfully struck the positions of the Ukrainian Kraken and Aidar formations near Kharkiv,” Lebedev stated, emphasizing the strategic importance of the operation. “These formations have been involved in numerous provocations and hostile actions against the local population and pro-Russian elements in the region.”
The Kraken and Aidar battalions, often labelled as extremist and nationalist, have been active in various combat operations throughout the conflict in Ukraine. Their presence in northeastern Ukraine has been a point of contention, with both sides accusing each other of escalating tensions and violence.
Lebedev’s announcement comes amidst ongoing hostilities and heightened military activities in the Kharkiv region. He highlighted the underground resistance’s role in gathering intelligence and coordinating with Russian forces to target what they describe as “enemy combatants and extremist factions.”
“The strikes were precise and intended to dismantle the operational capabilities of these formations,” Lebedev added. “We are committed to supporting Russian efforts to neutralize threats posed by these radical groups.”
The Ukrainian government has yet to respond to these claims, but previous engagements involving the Kraken and Aidar battalions have drawn significant international attention and concern. The battalions have been accused of various human rights violations, further complicating the already fraught situation in the conflict zone.
International observers have expressed apprehension about the potential for further escalation. The latest reports of strikes near Kharkiv underscore the volatile and unpredictable nature of the conflict, which continues to draw in various actors with competing agendas.
As the situation develops, both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with little indication of imminent resolution. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, marked by such targeted operations and retaliatory strikes, continues to pose significant challenges to regional stability and international peace efforts.