**Russian Forces Advance in Sumy Oblast, Ukraine**
Russia’s military is making a slow but steady push into northeastern Ukraine’s Sumy Oblast. According to Andrii Demchenko, spokesperson for the State Border Guard Service, Russian troops are using small assault groups and motorcycles to break through Ukrainian defenses.
These tactics allow the Russians to quickly move across the border and establish a foothold in Ukrainian territory. The ultimate goal is to create a “buffer zone” that would prevent further Ukrainian attacks on Russian soil. However, Ukrainian defenders have been engaging these units daily, destroying many of them in the process.
**Russian Strategy Focuses on Speed**
Demchenko explained that the Russians are trying to use speed to their advantage, attempting to penetrate deeper into Ukrainian territory quickly before facing significant resistance. These groups often operate on foot or ride in on light vehicles, such as motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. Once they cross the border, they attempt to dig in and wait for reinforcements.
**Key Villages Targeted by Russian Forces**
The Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups (SRGs) have been most active in northern Sumy Oblast, near the border with Chernihiv Oblast, and in the south, closer to Kharkiv Oblast. In the central part of the region, Russian forces continue to attempt to breach the border.
**Ukrainian Defense Holds Strong**
Despite the Russian advances, Ukrainian defense forces and border guards have been successfully destroying these groups during attempted border crossings and even before they reach the line. This has allowed the Ukrainians to prevent significant losses and maintain control over key areas.
**Civilians Remain Safe**
The spokesperson emphasized that residents of the villages targeted by Russian forces had long been evacuated, ensuring their safety from potential conflict zones.
Read More @ euromaidanpress.com
