The situation in the north of the Sumy region remains tense: Russian forces are attempting to establish a foothold along the state border, but their offensive efforts have not yet resulted in significant territorial gains. According to data from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), published by RBC-Ukraine, between July 19 and 20, the Russian army conducted limited offensive operations but failed to advance.
Strategy of Creating Buffer Zones
Analysts note that Moscow is not giving up attempts to form defensible buffer zones in the border area of the Sumy region. The enemy's goal is to create a "safety cushion" along the international border, but Ukrainian defense forces continue to hold key positions.
Geolocation data recorded on July 18 confirms active combat operations. Russian forces struck positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the area southeast of Oleksandriia, as well as along the border west of Kucherovo (Kursk region). Both settlements are located northwest of the city of Sumy. The fact that Ukrainian troops have maintained their positions in this sector refutes Russian claims of full control over the area.
Breakthrough in Taratutyne and Appearance of New Units
At the same time, the situation in the eastern sector of the Sumy region's defense causes serious concern. A source monitoring the actions of the Russian "North" grouping of forces reported on July 20 that the enemy is attempting to establish a foothold in the eastern part of the village of Taratutyne, located southeast of Sumy. The probability of Russian invaders penetrating this part of the settlement is assessed as high.
Of particular interest to military analysts is the appearance of new formations in combat. For the first time, the participation of units of the 1st Motor Rifle Battalion of the 2nd Motor Rifle Regiment of the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) has been recorded. These units are operating near the village of Maryine, east of Sumy. ISW notes that this is the first documented confirmation of the VKS regiment's participation in ground combat operations in this region.
Escalation of the Situation in the Region
Offensive actions on the ground are accompanied by activity in the air and along the air defense line. On the night of July 21, Ukraine's air defense systems repelled a new attack by Russian forces. In addition, the consequences of another enemy strike directly on the city of Sumy were recorded.
The escalation of the conflict is not limited to the Sumy region alone. In the south of the country, in Crimea, the night passed under fire: fires are raging on the peninsula, and a significant part of the territory was left without electricity as a result of Ukrainian drone attacks.
