Ukraine Thwarts Russian Advance in Sumy Region Amid Intensified Border Fighting, Syrskyi Says

Intense fighting continues near the Ukraine-Russia border in Sumy region and adjacent areas of the Russian Federation, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi said in a statement released on April 21.

“Following the orders of their leadership, Russian troops are trying to drive us out of the Kursk region and seize the border territories of Sumy region,” Syrskyi said.

“However, the implementation of the aggressor’s plan is being hindered by our units of the Defense Forces of Ukraine, which, with their active actions, once again thwarted the enemy’s offensive in this direction.”

Syrskyi, who recently visited the area, said his trip focused on assessing the condition and operational readiness of the brigades currently engaged in defensive operations.

“I planned my work precisely in this direction, with the aim of understanding in detail the state of affairs in the brigades conducting defense there, assisting commanders in organizing combat operations, and resolving problematic issues,” he said.

He added that shortly before Easter, he held meetings with brigade commanders, senior headquarters staff, and military branch chiefs to review combat readiness and logistical needs.

“I made all necessary decisions on the ground regarding ensuring combat operations and replenishing MTZ  and ammunition stocks,” Syrskyi said.

The meetings also included discussions on strengthening technological capabilities. According to Syrskyi, the focus is on expanding the use of modern systems, including unmanned platforms and artificial intelligence, across brigade structures.

“Only getting ahead of the enemy in the use of high-tech weapons, increasing the number and quality of robotic platforms and remotely controlled modules, and introducing artificial intelligence into weapons will allow us to effectively destroy the forces of a numerically superior enemy,” he said.

Meanwhile, it was reported that US Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs Steve Witkoff may travel to Russia following recent high-level meetings in London.

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