Russia preparing new strike from the north: Drapatyi warns of Kremlin’s dangerous plan

Russian forces have increased actions in the north, aiming to extend control along the border. The Kremlin has set its sights on Sumy and Kharkiv regions.

Commander of the Joint Forces Group Mykhailo Drapatyi told Ukrainska Pravda that Russian forces aim to create a 20‑km buffer zone by taking border villages, including in areas without prior frontline activity.

«Russian forces are „biting off“ new border settlements in the Sumy region. This is a tactic of a thousand cuts — small advances without large‑scale assaults or heavy equipment,» Drapatyi explains.

According to the Ukrainian military, the Russian «Sever» grouping, deployed along the border facing the Sumy and Kharkiv regions, has been tasked with expanding its so‑called zone of influence.

Ukrainian forces have identified 12 potential areas where the enemy may attempt to advance. Among them are:

- Krasnopillia area

- Velyka Pysarivka area

- Zolochiv area

On these sectors, Russian forces may deploy units ranging from an assault company to a battalion.