**Russian Forces Attempt to Gain Foothold in Sumy Oblast**
The situation on the Ukrainian-Russian border is becoming increasingly tense. According to a spokesperson for Ukraine’s State Border Guard, Russian forces are trying to establish a foothold near the village of Novenke, located 40 kilometers north of the regional center, Sumy.
These small assault units, composed of only a few people, try to penetrate Ukrainian territory, accumulate forces, and advance further into Ukraine. This could cut off logistical routes for Ukrainian forces. However, Ukrainian artillery and drone units continue attacking Russian troops, preventing them from accumulating forces.
**Concerns Grow Over Potential Loss of Kursk Salient**
The news comes as concerns grow over the potential loss of the Kursk salient in Ukraine’s Kharkiv Oblast. Russian forces have been trying to push towards Novenke for several weeks. If they succeed, it would weaken Ukraine’s negotiating position ahead of initial talks with the US in Saudi Arabia.
**Russia Prioritizes Weapons Production**
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) think-tank reported that Russia is collapsing the northern part of the Ukrainian Kursk salient. They also claim that Moscow has deployed North Korean troops in the renewed attack on Kursk Oblast.
This decline is attributed to Russia prioritizing weapons production for its own military, the impact of Western sanctions, and increased pressure from the US and its allies on countries purchasing Russian arms.
**Ukraine Prepares Ceasefire Proposal**
As part of its strategy, Kyiv is reportedly prepared to propose a partial ceasefire covering long-range drone and missile strikes, as well as hostilities in the Black Sea. This could prompt Washington to lift its freeze on military and intelligence support for Ukraine.
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