Russia claims "offensive on Sumy": NSDC reveals reality on border

While Russian propaganda spreads information about a supposed "offensive on Sumy," the reality on the ground is entirely different.

The Center for Countering Disinformation at the NSDC reported this on March 12.

The "Sever" grouping did not fulfill its assigned tasks and is attempting to present limited border actions as a large-scale offensive. In 2025, Russian troops failed to achieve the goals set by their command in the region. Now they are trying to demonstrate success through point-entries into abandoned border settlements.

"The Russian grouping "Sever" has not achieved its tasks for 2025. Now they are trying to present point and limited entry into border, abandoned villages as great achievements," the head of the Center for Countering Disinformation, Andriy Kovalenko said.

He added that Ukrainian forces are halting these movements, inflicting heavy casualties on Russian units.

Attempts to create a "buffer zone"

In specific sectors, Russian units are trying to force engagements to show they are supposedly fulfilling the mission of creating a so-called "buffer zone" along the border.

According to the NSDC official, this plan has already effectively collapsed.

"In some areas, the enemy is forcing combat as part of their "buffer zone" task. They have already failed this task," he stressed.

Russian propaganda claims offensive on Sumy

Regardless of the real situation on the front lines, Russian media are actively spreading reports of a supposed Russian troop offensive on Sumy. Russia’s Ministry of Defense has also claimed the “capture” of settlements in the region.

Kovalenko stresses that such statements are part of the Kremlin’s information campaign.

“Their propaganda speculates that this is an offensive on Sumy. No, this is not any offensive on Sumy,” he concluded.