Russians concentrating units involved in Kursk operation near Sumy region

As reported by Ukrinform, Colonel Vadym Mysnyk, Spokesperson for the Siversk Operational Tactical Group of Troops, announced this during a television broadcast.

“We had previously observed the enemy’s military presence along the entire border but did not detect signs of large group formations for offensive operations. However, since the situation on the adjacent Kursk territory has changed, the enemy has concentrated considerable forces there, moving them closer to the state border. Therefore, these accumulated forces are likely what we are now seeing. Our task is to maximize the strengthening of our defense system and continue carrying out combat missions both in the adjacent area (in Kursk region) and along the border,” Mysnyk explained, commenting on the enemy’s force buildup.

According to Mysnyk, the situation in the north remains stable.

“The operational situation has not changed significantly. The enemy shells the border areas daily along the entire strip, using almost their entire available arsenal. However, it should be noted that they are very actively employing FPV drones, UAV-dropped munitions, mortars, and barrel artillery. The enemy targets Sumy border area most intensively, with their highest concentration of forces and equipment in this direction,” the spokesperson reported.

He added that there is still a threat of enemy sabotage and reconnaissance groups (SRGs) infiltrating the area, but the Ukrainian Defense Forces are in control of the situation.

Mysnyk also noted that Russian SRGs are mainly active on the flanks, where the enemy’s buildup is observed. At the same time, the Ukrainian Defense Forces are striving to detect and destroy them in a timely manner.

“We are able to detect and eliminate them promptly. We have anti-sabotage reserves and technical capabilities for this purpose, providing us with all the means necessary to counter their activities,” Mysnyk stated. He added that Russian forces have not entered Chernihiv region for some time, although the threat remains.

The spokesperson confirmed that the number of Ukrainian mobile fire groups deployed along the northern border of Chernihiv and Sumy regions has increased. These groups are tasked with destroying enemy drones, whose numbers have recently surged.

“We are now shooting down more than ten powerful strike drones every day. Several others lose control due to the use of electronic warfare systems. We know that this is a strategic direction for the enemy, with strike drones entering from both Kursk and Bryansk regions. Therefore, we are carefully studying the enemy’s changing tactics and new systems. Our work in this area is ongoing, as we strive to maximize the protection of our population and infrastructure from these attacks,” Mysnyk assured.

As reported by Ukrinform, the General Staff denied claims of alleged encirclement of Ukrainian units by the enemy in Kursk region.

On March 13, authorities in Sumy region announced the mandatory evacuation of eight settlements in frontline Yunakivska and Myropilska communities.