Russian troops amid disputes over the alleged 'massive encirclement' of Ukrainian forces near Kharkiv

The photo shows Russian servicemen in tactical camouflage wearing 'Z' patches, the RF flag and a 'Spetsnaz Russia' insignia, standing in formation on open ground. The image illustrates Moscow's claims of offensive operations near Kharkiv, which ISW considers exaggerated. The gap between official rhetoric and the actual frontline situation is the core of the article.