Ukrainian Border Guard doubts Russian capability for major Sumy attack
Russia does not have sufficient forces to achieve strategic objectives in Ukraine’s northeastern Sumy Oblast, according to Andriy Demchenko, spokesperson for the State Border Guard Service (SBGS). Demchenko shared these insights on national television on May 26.
"We cannot say that the enemy has a group of troops in the Sumy sector that could achieve strategic goals. We are not recording this,” Demchenko stated. “However, I would like to note that despite the lack of significant forces and means, the enemy may still attempt to enter this area. Therefore, we must be prepared for any action by the enemy."
This statement follows his earlier comment on May 22, indicating that Russian subversive and reconnaissance groups were active in Sumy Oblast, suggesting the possible opening of another front.
"This is not recorded in Chernihiv Oblast, but Sumy is the area where the enemy is constantly trying to carry out sabotage activities," Demchenko noted.
Budanov's statement on Russia's possible attack on Sumy
The Russian attacks in Kharkiv Oblast will continue for "another three or four days", after which the Russian troops are expected to "make a decisive offensive in the direction of Sumy," Ukrainian Military Intelligence (HUR) head, Kyrylo Budanov, told The New York Times on May 14.
Read also: HUR chief’s public warning on Russia’s attack on Sumy explained by Ukrainian vet
Russia maintains a small group of forces on the border near Sumy Oblast, he said.
The Russian invaders planned to attack the Sumy Oblast in connection with Kharkiv Oblast, National Security and Defence Council's Center for Countering Disinformation head, Andriy Kovalenko, said.
The situation in Sumy Oblast is under control, civilians were evacuated from Bilopillya on the recommendation of the military, and the construction of defense structures in the region is almost complete, regional governor, Volodymyr Artyukh, said in response to Budanov'scomments.
The Russians would not have enough strength to attack Sumy Oblast, Kharkiv Oblast, and the eastern regions of Ukraine at the same time, Sumy District Council deputy chair, Volodymyr Bitsak, said on May 15.
An attack by Russian forces on Sumy Oblast should not be ruled out, State Border Guard Service spokesperson, Andriy Demchenko, said on May 21.
Read also:
Russian missile strikes Konotop industrial site in Sumy Oblast
Ukrainian soldiers halt Russian advance in Kharkiv, counteroffensive starts — General Staff
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