**Russia Gathers Troops on Ukrainian Border, Aimed at Establishing “Buffer Zone”**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia is planning to create a 10-kilometer buffer zone inside Ukraine’s territory. According to Zelenskyy, Moscow aims to achieve this goal by amassing over 50,000 troops in the northeastern Sumy direction.
**Heavy Fighting Ahead?**
The Sumy Oblast, where Russian forces are gathering, is already a frontline area that has been heavily shelled by Russian troops. This region is strategically important for Ukraine as it shares a border with Russia’s Kursk Oblast. In August 2024, Ukrainian troops launched an attack on Kursk from Sumy Oblast, capturing around 1,000 square kilometers and 28 settlements. However, the situation took a turn when Russian forces, backed by North Korean troops, recaptured most of the lost territory in early 2025.
**Russia’s Strategic Move?**
Zelenskyy has revealed that Russia is positioning its strongest forces near Kursk to prepare for an attack on Sumy Oblast. This move could be a strategic attempt by Moscow to prevent Ukraine from launching a major offensive into the Kharkiv and Sumy oblasts. By forcing Russian troops to focus on defending Kursk, Ukraine might have temporarily halted Russia’s advance deeper into its territory.
**A High-Stakes Game of Military Strategy**
The situation in Sumy Oblast is fraught with high stakes for both Ukraine and Russia. The establishment of a 10-kilometer buffer zone would give Moscow a significant advantage, potentially allowing Russian forces to exert pressure on Ukraine without being fully engaged. Zelenskyy’s announcement highlights the ongoing military struggle between the two nations.
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