Several killed in Kharkiv region as Russia launches renewed ground assault

In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Police, police evacuate elderly people following the Russian attack around the town of Vovchansk in Kharkiv region, Ukraine, Friday, May 10, 2024. (Ukrainian Police via AP)

Russian forces have started a renewed ground assault on Ukraine’s north-east, killing and injuring several and forcing more than 1,700 civilians to evacuate from the Kharkiv region, local officials have said.

Artillery, mortar and aerial bombardments hit more than 30 different towns and villages on Friday, leaving at least three people dead and five others injured, according to Kharkiv governor Oleh Syniehubov.