Russians step up activity near border in Sumy Oblast, expanding their zone of control

DeepState, a Ukrainian group of military analysts, has said Russian troops have intensified their activity near the Ukrainian state border in Sumy Oblast, attempting to expand their zone of control in border villages.

Source: DeepState

Quote: "New red zones [occupied by Russia – ed.] are appearing on the map, including settlements that are falling under enemy occupation along the state border. We have been monitoring these developments for a long time and have repeatedly stressed that attention must be paid to them, as the enemy is taking advantage of the opportunity to expand the zone of control, destabilise the situation around the state border of Ukraine and divert our resources and attention."

Details: According to DeepState, the occupied zone has expanded to 45 sq km near the village of Hrabovske, which the analysts say Russian troops captured in December. DeepState also reports that Russian forces have entered two neighbouring settlements – Popivka and Vysoke.

In addition, DeepState reported activity by Russian infantry in Sopych. According to the analysts, Russian soldiers entered the village and abducted local residents.

The group also reports that Komarivka, further south, has entered the so-called red zone – areas occupied by Russian forces. The analysts say Russian troops were initially observed there, before establishing a foothold in the settlement.

Quote: "Meanwhile, there are many grey zones along the border where the enemy is being observed, probing the situation and will certainly take advantage if possible. The enemy is thus forming a buffer zone on our territory in order to secure its border and establish observation points to ensure access to intelligence ahead of any of our manoeuvres. There are areas where the enemy simply sets up an observation post with several or even a single soldier."

Details: DeepState believes the Ukrainian command needs to pay greater attention to sections along the border, particularly in organising the defence of units stationed there and ensuring they have the resources needed to deter Russian provocations. The analysts note that although Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups were previously repelled when attempting to cross the border, such incidents are increasingly becoming a problem.

DeepState stressed that resolving the problem requires more than simply placing troops on the border, it also means having resources, particularly drones, that could prevent Russian infantry from moving in border areas and entrenching themselves in settlements.

The analysts also urged local residents to evacuate from border areas, stressing that the border remains a high-risk zone.

Background: On 7 March, DeepState reported that Russian troops had occupied the village of Sopych in Sumy Oblast, where the abduction of local residents had previously been reported.

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