**North of Sumy Region Under Siege: Russia Pushes Toward Strategic City**
The situation in the north of Ukraine’s Sumy region continues to worsen, with Russian forces exerting relentless pressure on Ukrainian defenders. According to analysts from the DeepState project, the constant influx of Russian troops and their numerical advantage are putting significant strain on the front line.
**Russian Forces Refuse to Let Up**
Ukrainian soldiers have reported that even after enemy clusters are destroyed, new forces are quickly deployed by the Russians. While attacks may be temporarily halted, the sheer number of enemy troops is creating a heavy burden for Ukrainian defenders. The situation has become increasingly dire in several settlements, including Kindrativka, Vodolahy, and Oleksiivka.
**Kindrativka: A Key Location Under Attack**
A concentration of Russian infantry has been spotted in Kindrativka, sparking concerns that the settlement may already be under enemy control. In Oleksiivka, Russian forces were halted on the northern outskirts but continue to launch relentless assaults. The fighting is particularly intense in this area.
**Fighting Rages On as Ukraine Uses Artillery and Drones**
The weather has been a welcome respite for Ukrainian troops, who are using artillery and drones to good effect against the enemy. However, Russian forces are attempting to bypass defenses through Yablunivka and Yunakivka, though progress is being hindered by destroyed infrastructure.
**Khotin: The Key to Approaching Sumy**
The main direction of Russia’s offensive is the village of Khotin, which could allow them to approach Sumy within a striking distance. Capturing Khotin would give Russian forces a significant advantage in terms of logistics and reconnaissance capabilities.
**Ukrainian Defenders Cope with Shortages and Challenges**
Ukrainian soldiers are reporting shortages of personnel and emphasizing the need for defense to be prioritized. As a reminder, Russian troops have already occupied the village of Kostyantynivka in Sumy region and advanced near Oleksiivka.
**The Threat of Drones Looms Large**
As Russian forces press on, Ukrainian defenses are being hampered by the lack of effective countermeasures against Russian drones. The local terrain also favors the Russians, with elevated ground giving them a tactical advantage.
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