Russian Forces Continue Offensive in Sumy Region Amid Heavy Casualties
Russian troops are intensifying their offensive operations in the northern direction of the Sumy region, but they are suffering exceptionally high losses. NATO officials assess that attempts by Russia to encircle the city of Sumy are unlikely to be successful in the near future; however, new attacks in the region cannot be ruled out, reports 24brussels.
During a NATO summit, an anonymous Alliance official confirmed that analysts corroborate the Ukrainian General Staff’s data on Russian casualties. Estimates suggest that overall Russian losses exceed 1 million personnel, with approximately 250,000 confirmed dead. Currently, daily losses are around 1,300 servicemen, attributed to aggressive tactics that have led to significant combat casualties, particularly in the Sumy region.
“In this region, Russia is attempting to establish a ‘buffer zone’ following operations in the Kursk region. While there is some advancement, it is severely exhausting the Russian army,” the official stated.
Despite these tactical movements, NATO does not view the encirclement of Sumy as realistic in the near term. The Alliance anticipates that Russia will try to expand their front line to the north and northeast of Sumy to create conditions for a possible advance on the city.
“For the past two months, the front line in eastern Ukraine has remained relatively stable, with no significant changes, although Russia continues to advance in Sumy,” the source added.
According to the official, alongside Russian actions, Ukraine has also achieved tactical gains. NATO has confirmed the advancement of Ukrainian units around the settlement of Tëtkyne in the Kursk region, which is exerting additional pressure on Russian offensive operations.
Military analyst Pavel Narozhny noted that if Russian forces secure a foothold in Yunakivka, they could establish a base just 22 km from Sumy.
Meanwhile, military expert and journalist Yuriy Butusov stated that Russian forces continue their advance in the Sumy region, as there are no established lines of defense in the area.
