In the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, tensions have escalated as Russian troops have reportedly entered the Sumy region of Ukraine, bordering the Kursk region of Russia. This development, which began on Friday, Feb. 28, has intensified the fighting between Russian forces and the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU). The situation on the ground near the village of Novenke in the Sumy region, close to the Russian border, has become a focal point for military analysis. DeepState, a Ukrainian military analysis platform, has highlighted the challenges faced by Ukrainian troops in the region.
Challenges in Kursk
According to DeepState, Ukraine has faced significant difficulties in maintaining control over territories in the Kursk region since August 2024. The battlefield in Kursk is characterized by its small size and the concentrated deployment of forces and resources, making it a challenging environment for Ukrainian troops. The pressure on Ukrainian forces has intensified as Russian troops attempt to cut off the main road linking Ukrainian-controlled territories in the Kursk region to the rest of Ukraine.
An officer stationed in the area described the situation as dire, with pressure coming from both eastern and western flanks simultaneously. While the right flank has seen relative stability, the left flank has witnessed significant challenges, particularly after the capture of the village of Sverdlikovo by Russian forces. The loss of strategic positions near the border has raised concerns about the potential threat to the highway running through the Sumy region, a critical supply route for Ukrainian troops.
Drones and Fiber-optic Technology
One of the key challenges faced by Ukrainian troops in the region is the proliferation of Russian drones, particularly those equipped with fiber-optic technology. Ukrainian drone operators have likened the skies to a “spider’s den,” with drones swarming the area. The use of fiber-optic drones presents a unique challenge, as they are immune to electronic jamming, requiring visual detection and manual interception. The constant threat of drone attacks has forced Ukrainian forces to frequently change positions, adding to the physical and mental strain on troops.
The presence of drones has not only impacted Ukrainian troops but has also posed challenges for Russian forces. Russian Telegram channels have reported that Ukrainian drones have effectively restricted Russian movements along the front line, creating a complex aerial environment for both sides. Military analysts emphasize the critical role of reserves in determining the outcome of the conflict, highlighting the need for Ukraine to maintain a sufficient supply of troops and resources to counter Russian advances.
As the conflict in the Kursk region continues, the focus remains on the village of Novenke as a key battleground. Despite the challenges faced by Ukrainian troops, the compact nature of the battlefield provides opportunities for strategic positioning and effective defense. The ability of Ukraine to maintain control over critical territories and repel Russian offensives hinges on its capacity to mobilize reserves and sustain its military operations. The outcome of this battle will ultimately be determined by the ability of Ukrainian forces to withstand the pressure from Russian troops and secure their positions in the region.
