Tension Escalates as Russia Strives to Establish Security Buffer in Ukraine's Sumy Region

Russia has intensified efforts to establish a 'security strip' in Ukraine's Sumy region following the eviction of Ukrainian forces from the neighboring Kursk area. While Ukraine maintains a presence in Kursk, it worries about Russian advances. Despite Russian assertions of success, local reports indicate ongoing conflict.

Russia announced on Friday that it is actively pursuing the creation of a 'security strip' in Ukraine's Sumy region, having previously ousted Ukrainian troops from the adjacent Kursk area in western Russia.

Ukraine claims to retain a foothold in Kursk following an August incursion, initially designed to draw Russian forces away and gain an upper hand in future peace negotiations. Nevertheless, Ukrainian authorities express concern over potential Russian advances into Sumy. Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously called for such a buffer zone as a defense measure against future Ukrainian actions.

There are reports of ongoing Russian offensives from Zhuravka to the Sumy region, with Russian paratroopers reportedly overcoming resistance. Despite Russian claims of progress, local and independent sources reveal contested zones and continued conflict, leaving the situation unresolved.

(With inputs from agencies.)