Russian forces step up operations in Kharkiv-Sumy border area — Ukrainian officer

Commander Yurii Fedorenko of Ukraine's 429th Separate Drone Systems Regiment Achilles shared the information on Espreso TV.

“Russian forces are actively conducting a summer offensive operation, strengthening their strike and assault capabilities in several areas, including the Kharkiv region. Activity has increased near Kupiansk, Vovchansk, and adjacent areas bordering Sumy. Russia’s tactics remain unchanged: reconnaissance and fire support assets operate along the front line and strike frontline villages and towns. Ukraine’s Defense Forces are doing everything possible to minimize the Russian impact and attempts to advance,” commented the commander.

He added that to "blind" Russian troops, Ukrainian forces shoot down their reconnaissance equipment. This makes it harder for Russia to see what’s happening in real time and aim their attacks accurately. He also noted that Russian forces are relying more and more on their cheapest resource — manpower.

“The Russians now barely train their infantry units. Just six months ago, the Russian army conscripted 18,000 to 25,000 servicemen monthly and trained them for 45 days to fill out brigades. Now, they have high turnover — conscripts receive a maximum of 14 days of training before being sent immediately to replace combat losses. The Russian infantry’s task is to keep moving like a stream, trying to break through our battle lines. Due to constant losses of armored and lightly armored vehicles, the invaders have switched their assault infantry to a cheaper resource — buggies and Chinese two-wheeled motorcycles. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the Ukrainian Defense Forces, we are currently able to hold back the enemy,” Fedorenko concluded.

• On June 22, 142 combat clashes were recorded on the Russian-Ukrainian front. In the Pokrovsk sector, Russian troops attempted to advance toward Ukrainian positions 44 times.