Russia Seeks Foothold in Sumy Region, Targeting Ukrainian Logistics

Russian forces are deploying small assault groups in an attempt to secure positions near Novenke, a village in Sumy region close to the Russian border, according to Andrii Demchenko, spokesperson for Ukraine’s State Border Guard Service.

Ukrainian forces continue to counter these incursions, targeting enemy units with artillery and drone strikes.

Speaking on national television, Demchenko said Russian troops are attempting to penetrate Ukrainian territory in small groups, likely aiming to consolidate forces for further advances.

“These are small assault units, composed of a few people. They try to penetrate our territory, accumulate forces, and advance further into Ukraine, probably to cut off logistical routes,” he said.

Military analysts confirm that Russian forces are engaged in an ongoing offensive near Novenke, seeking to establish stable positions.

According to DeepState analyst Ruslan Mykula, Russian troops have already crossed the border and maintain fortified positions. He noted that their likely objective is to advance toward the settlements of Basivka and Loknia to disrupt Ukrainian supply lines near Yunakivka.

Anton Serbin, head of drone operations for Ukraine’s 104th Territorial Defense Brigade, reported that Ukrainian forces are maintaining defensive positions, preventing Russian troops from expanding their foothold.

“The situation remains unchanged. Combat operations continue as before,” he said. Serbin added that Russian forces are employing reconnaissance and sabotage units, as well as suicide drones, in an effort to push deeper into Sumy region and create a buffer zone.

Earlier, Ukrainian forces detected and struck Russian troops attempting to advance near Sudzha in Russia’s Kursk region via a gas pipeline. The Russian units, including special forces and naval infantry, suffered losses from Ukrainian artillery and drone strikes.

Ukraine’s military confirmed that Russian troops are being blocked and neutralized, with no major breakthroughs into Sumy Oblast. Reports indicate North Korean personnel may be supporting the assault.