Zelensky Reports Gradual Repulsion of Occupying Forces from Sumy Region
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made an important announcement regarding the current situation on the front lines and the prospects of a Ukrainian counteroffensive. In his address, he noted that Ukrainian units are gradually but confidently pushing Russian occupiers out of the Sumy region. According to the head of state, the situation at the front is becoming more favorable, and Ukrainian soldiers are already achieving their first successes in this direction. Zelensky emphasized that, based on information from Commander-in-Chief Syrsky, particular attention is now focused primarily on the Donetsk and Pokrovsk directions. Additionally, he pointed out active operations in the Kursk region and along the border with Russia, especially in the border areas of Sumy region. “Our units in Sumy are slowly but surely pushing back the enemy. This is the result of joint efforts by the military and all the Ukrainian people. I am grateful to every soldier, sergeant, and officer participating in this important work,” Zelensky said. “Glory to our defenders! This is only the beginning, and we believe in a swift victory.” Besides frontline updates, the president also held detailed talks with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov regarding financial support for the defense sector. In particular, they discussed all aspects of supporting the defense industry, procurement of weapons and equipment, as well as international diplomatic activities in this area. Zelensky promised that in the coming weeks, Ukraine has several important international meetings planned, aimed at strengthening global support and more effectively coordinating efforts on the diplomatic front. According to the president, one of the main focuses of foreign policy is convincing the international community that sanctions against Russia are effective and have a tangible impact. “We need our partners to clearly understand — sanctions must operate at all levels and truly influence the Russian regime. These include sanctions on Russian oil, the banking sector, and financial structures, as well as against individuals and companies helping the Russian authorities evade restrictions. It is this kind of pressure that will make them realize that the game is over. This will mark the boundary beyond which Russian aggression can be contained, paving the way for a just and sustainable peace,” Zelensky emphasized. He added that in the coming weeks, several key international meetings are expected, where future steps to increase pressure on Russia and support Ukraine will be discussed. The head of state called on international partners to remain united and highly cautious on this issue to deny Russia any chances of recovery. He stressed that the fight continues, and he is convinced that only through joint efforts can a just peace be achieved and security ensured for the Ukrainian people.