Since the beginning of summer, a large-scale evacuation operation has been underway in Sumy region
According to data from the regional military administration, since the early days of June, nearly nine hundred residents have already been evacuated, including 137 children. The region has been operating in a mode of constant mobilization and coordination for over three weeks, with the goal of saving lives in the most dangerous areas of border communities, which have become most affected by external threats. According to Oleg Hryhorov, the head of the Sumy Regional Military Administration, the evacuation operation continues daily and covers 213 settlements across 18 border communities. He noted that the process is being carried out in close cooperation with local authorities, rescue services of the State Emergency Service, law enforcement agencies, volunteers, and international partners. The continuous deployment of humanitarian hubs and transit centers is crucial for providing prompt assistance to those remaining in hazardous areas. Official information indicates that, just in the past day, 21 people have been evacuated. The procedures are conducted under the safest possible conditions, and coordinators emphasize that the evacuation is planned and carried out according to developed scenarios and schedules to minimize risks, focusing on the most vulnerable segments of the population. Hryhorov stresses that this large-scale humanitarian and security measure is a priority in the region. All available resources are being used to quickly evacuate people from areas with elevated danger. “We are working in extremely difficult conditions, but we trust only coordinated actions of all services and partners,” he said. In addition to evacuation efforts, the region is strengthening its defensive capacity. Currently, anti-drone coverage is being deployed—systems designed to counter unmanned aerial vehicles that can be used for reconnaissance and targeting. Mobile fire groups are also operational, capable of responding rapidly to any emerging threats along the border. Regional authorities emphasize that support for defensive capabilities involves local businesses and the community, as everyone understands that only joint efforts can maintain peace and security in the region. Given the situation, authorities call on residents to stay calm, adhere to safety rules, and support each other during this challenging period. This evacuation operation and enhancement of defensive measures demonstrate that Sumy region, despite everything, remains committed to its goal—protecting lives and creating conditions for further development and stability of the area.