The Russian military also intensified overnight drone attacks on Ukrainian cities, injuring multiple civilians in Kyiv and Mykolaiv.
New offensive in Sumy, Kharkiv
Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi said Russia has launched an offensive in Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts, with forces entering at least two villages near the border.
Ukrainian units have reportedly stalled further Russian advances using concentrated fire. Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops maintain a small foothold in Russia’s Kursk region.
“Russian commanders likely seek to establish a buffer zone in Sumy but may plan deeper operations toward the city itself,” the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said, citing ongoing clashes.
Battles in Donbas
Despite Russia’s push in the northeast, the Ukrainian General Staff says the most intense fighting remains in the eastern Donetsk region, near the city of Pokrovsk.
Analysts believe Moscow is still aiming to capture the entire Donbas – a goal unachieved since the full-scale invasion began in 2022.
Drone strikes on cities
Overnight drone attacks continued, wounding two women in Kyiv.
In Mykolaiv, a Russian Shahed drone hit a residential area, damaging homes and vehicles. Ten people were injured, according to local officials.
Ukraine’s air defenses in Cherkasy reportedly downed 12 Russian drones. No casualties or significant infrastructure damage were reported there.
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Source: Polskie Radio 24, IAR