Escalation in the East: Russians are intensifying troop movements in Sumy and preparing for attacks in Donetsk
In recent weeks, significant military relocations of Russian forces have been observed in the northern regions of Ukraine. According to analytical groups and Ukrainian military sources, including the DeepState intelligence agency, the situation on the front in Sumy raises many questions regarding potential scenario developments. It is already evident that the Russians intend to increase their activities along the border, putting additional pressure on Ukrainian positions in this area. This suggests that the sharpest fighting could occur there, while preparations for a larger-scale offensive continue in eastern Ukraine, with particular focus on Donetsk. Ukrainian analysts report that as of mid-June, the aggressor’s forces have advanced over 200 square kilometers into Ukraine’s Sumy region. This is a considerable territory—about a third of the size of the Kursk region, which Ukrainian troops once controlled during the Kursk operational campaign. The intensified Russian activity increases the danger for local civilians, especially with mounting pressure on positions near Yunakivka and other settlements. Experts warn that this pressure should be viewed not only as fighting for strategic points but also as preparation for a possible broader offensive. Changes in the tactics of the enemy indicate that Russia is seeking to deepen its intervention in regional actions, carefully planning to operate both in the northern and eastern directions—including in Donetsk Oblast. According to sources, this region could become the epicenter of the current phase of the war. Regarding possible scenarios, the increased Russian activity in Sumy most likely means that it will become more difficult for Ukrainian command to prevent similar actions in strategically important southern and eastern regions—particularly in Donetsk, where fierce battles are ongoing and exhausting defensive efforts are underway. To gain deeper insight into the current situation, our correspondents turned to experts. Olga Kyrylenko, a journalist from Ukrainska Pravda, prepared a video blog analyzing this new phase and frontline developments in detail. She emphasizes that Russia does not hide its intentions—they are preparing for a large-scale campaign on all fronts, focusing on seizing strategic points and destroying Ukrainian defensive lines. The video includes not only an analysis of enemy maneuvers but also forecasts of their possible further actions, based on numerous intelligence reports indicating preparations for a large-scale offensive. Ukraine is currently doing everything possible to counter these aggressive moves, strengthening defenses and rearming its troops. However, the realities of the conflict create a high level of uncertainty and demand continuous mobilization of resources and leadership decisions. By employing modern tactical and strategic methods, Ukrainian forces aim to slow down enemy advances and disrupt Russian plans to expand their control zone. Amid all this, experts urge Ukrainians to remain vigilant and exercise responsibility regarding information updates, as changes on the front directly impact national security. Political and military leadership is taking all necessary measures to neutralize threats, but victory will depend not only on weapons and tactics but also on the unity and resilience of the Ukrainian society as a whole. A depressing fact remains: the war continues, and the enemy is trying to destabilize the situation in multiple directions simultaneously. Therefore, the future of the fight depends on Ukraine’s ability to mobilize all necessary resources and be prepared for any development scenario. The most important thing now is to stay alert and maintain resilience at all levels.