**Ukraine’s Military Gains Ground Against Russia in Sumy Oblast**
In a major development, Ukrainian forces have begun to push Russian troops back from parts of Sumy Oblast, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on June 12. This comes as cross-border assaults in the region have escalated, with both sides trading blows.
According to Zelensky, Ukrainian units in Sumy Oblast are “gradually pushing back the occupiers.” He credited each of the soldiers, sergeants, and officers for their role in this achievement. This is a significant turn of events, as Russian troops had advanced into Sumy Oblast since Ukraine’s withdrawal from most of its positions in Russia’s Kursk Oblast in March.
**Russia’s Aggressive Moves**
Since March, Russia has reportedly taken control of around 200 square kilometers (80 square miles) in northern Sumy Oblast, including roughly a dozen small villages. As of May 31, mandatory evacuations were ordered for 213 settlements. This aggressive push by Russian forces was part of Vladimir Putin’s plan to create a so-called “security buffer zone” along the border with Ukraine.
Zelensky had previously stated that Moscow had massed around 50,000 troops near Sumy Oblast. However, in a separate interview with Bild on June 12, he dismissed Moscow’s claims of significant territorial gains as “a Russian narrative” aimed at shaping global perceptions.
**Ukraine Holds Firm**
Zelensky stressed that Ukrainian forces have managed to hold off a renewed offensive for nearly three weeks. This is a testament to the bravery and resilience of Ukraine’s military. Sumy Oblast, which shares a long border with Russia, has been under near-constant attack since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022.
**Human Cost**
The conflict has come at a high human cost. On June 3, Russian strikes on the city of Sumy killed six people and injured 28 others, including children. The people of Ukraine have suffered greatly due to Russia’s aggressive actions.
In summary, Ukrainian forces are making gains against Russian troops in Sumy Oblast, pushing them back from parts of the region. This development is a significant blow to Russia’s plans to create a “security buffer zone” along the border with Ukraine.
