Separatists living in occupied territories of Ukraine have been fleeing back to Russia following Ukraine’s successful counteroffensive near Kharkiv. Many refugees come from territories in Donetsk and Luhansk, even though officials have maintained that no fighting was currently threatening the separatist republics.
Ukraine’s government has made clear its intention to liberate all occupied territory, including the Donbas and Crimea. Partisan attacks in Crimea have shown that Ukraine is able to strike deep in occupied territories not held since 2014, indicating Ukraine may secure both regions if Western aid continues.
World Affairs International 