Ukrainian Forces Strengthen Defense around Sumy Amidst Russian Threats
Ukrainian military has intensified efforts to fortify defensive positions around Sumy in response to ongoing threats from the Russian army in the area. While there is currently no immediate danger of occupation, the Defense Forces are considering all possible scenarios, reports 24brussels.
This was stated by General Oleg Apostol, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Assault Forces, in an interview with the media outlet “Telegraf.”
According to the general, the situation along the frontline in Sumy Oblast remains complex but manageable. He does not rule out that the enemy may escalate pressure in this direction.
“Can the enemy transfer more reserves here and intensify the offensive? Absolutely. However, as of the end of July, there is no direct threat to Sumy, aside from shelling,” Apostol noted.
He emphasized that in the event of a deteriorating situation, local authorities and military command will convey the necessary information to civilians and organize evacuations. Meanwhile, the Armed Forces of Ukraine, particularly the Air Assault Forces, are doing everything possible to hold back the enemy and prevent any breakthrough into the city.
General Apostol referenced the example of Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast, where active hostilities have been ongoing for more than a year.
“When the fighting began around Pokrovsk, many predicted its swift occupation. However, the city remained under Ukrainian control — despite the challenging circumstances, we maintained it,” he remarked.
Apostol underscored that war entails constant changes in the situation, and Ukraine must be prepared for any developments.
“It is said that if you want peace, prepare for war. Unfortunately, after gaining independence, we underestimated this truth. But over the last 10-11 years, we should have clearly understood: it is necessary to systematically invest resources into strengthening the Armed Forces, so that in a critical moment, the country can rely on them rather than waiting until the enemy is just a kilometer away and only then thinking about fortifications and defense,” the commander concluded.
For context, military officer Stanislav “Osman” Buniaatov reported that a positional war is currently unfolding in the Sumy direction.
