Is Russia preparing an offensive through Sumy? Ukraine fears a new front line

The Russian military is preparing for a new large-scale offensive, according to The Telegraph. One possible axis may be through Sumy Oblast, which borders Russia.

Troop movements from Kursk raise alarms

Sources report that Ukrainian forces are redeploying from the Kursk region to Sumy, suggesting Kyiv is expecting an assault from that direction.

Still, military experts interviewed by the paper believe that a breakthrough through Sumy is unlikely.

Limited-scale operations ongoing

According to FDD’s Deputy Director of the Russia Program, John Hardie:

“We’re seeing increased attack tempo, but with small units. They might breach lines, but won’t achieve strategic gains.”

The report notes that most attacks involve infantry units due to shortages of vehicles and armor.

Russia’s equipment losses, per The Telegraph:
- Over 3,000 tanks,
- 9,000+ armored vehicles,
- 13,000+ artillery systems.

“The operational reserve appears thin. By year-end, Russia may face serious challenges in deploying new forces,” Hardie concluded.

Sumy and Kharkiv — the next flashpoints?

Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi confirmed on April 9 that Russia has launched attacks in Sumy and Kharkiv. The number of battles is rising along the line.

Ukrainian analysts predict a major escalation by late spring or early summer. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!