Syrskyi: No Encirclement Threat as Ukraine Strengthens Kursk Defenses

Ukraine’s defense forces remain in control of the border between Sumy Oblast and Russia’s Kursk Oblast despite sustained Russian attacks, including the deployment of North Korean infantry units, according to Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, on March 10.

“The situation on the border of Sumy Oblast with Russia’s Kursk Oblast remains under the control of Ukraine’s Defense Forces,” Syrskyi stated, adding that several settlements along the border referenced in Russian reports “no longer effectively exist—they have been destroyed by enemy fire.”

According to Syrskyi, Russian forces continue to sustain significant losses in personnel and equipment.

In the area of Pliakhove alone, the enemy has lost an entire infantry battalion in four days of fighting. He also noted that Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups, along with small infantry units attempting to breach Ukrainian lines, have been neutralized due to a well-prepared defense system.

To reinforce Ukraine’s defensive positions, Syrskyi said he had ordered additional forces and assets, including electronic warfare systems and drones, to be deployed to the operational zone.

Despite ongoing hostilities, he stated there is currently no risk of Ukrainian forces being encircled in Kursk Oblast. Units are maneuvering strategically to maintain defensive advantages.

Earlier, Ukraine’s 12th Brigade “Azov” received domestically produced UAS SETH tactical strike drones, acquired through the “Come Back Alive” foundation. Equipped with an automated targeting system, the drones are now in use on the Toretsk front.