Russian military forces have made significant inroads into Ukraine’s northern Sumy region, intensifying the conflict despite renewed diplomatic talks. In just under two weeks, Russian units have reportedly captured over 150 square kilometers of territory, edging closer to the regional capital and bringing it within reach of artillery and drone strikes. This aggressive advancement underscores a broader escalation on the battlefield, with Moscow accelerating its offensive momentum after months of slower gains.

According to Ukraine’s well-regarded Deep State mapping project, May marked Russia’s fastest rate of territorial gains in at least half a year. This renewed surge follows Russian President Vladimir Putin’s directive to establish a “buffer zone” in northern Ukraine after expelling Ukrainian troops from Russia’s neighboring Kursk region in April. That buffer appears to now be materializing in Sumy, as Russian troops, supported by air and artillery power, move steadily forward.

Russia's Defence Ministry announced the capture of the village of Kindrativka, positioning its forces a mere 25 to 30 kilometers from the city of Sumy. At this distance, Sumy lies well within range of Russian artillery and drones, increasing the threat to the city's infrastructure and civilian population. Pro-Kremlin military blogger Yuri Podolyaka declared the northern offensive a success, echoing Moscow’s narrative of gaining the upper hand in this theatre of war.

Ukrainian defense officials have described the incursion into Sumy as being carried out by small, mobile Russian assault teams rather than conventional armored units. This tactic allows for stealthy infiltration through the porous border areas, making defense more complex and resource-intensive for Kyiv. In a recent attack on the city of Sumy, Russian artillery strikes claimed four civilian lives and left 28 wounded, amplifying fears of a broader assault on urban centers

Analysts suggest the expansion into Sumy poses a strategic dilemma for Ukraine’s military, which is already stretched thin defending the embattled Donbas region in the south. The growing pressure from the north forces Ukraine to divide its attention and resources, potentially weakening its frontlines in other areas where Russia is pushing for full control. The intensification of hostilities has also coincided with a spike in missile and drone attacks across multiple fronts.

Despite these setbacks, Ukraine continues to show tactical ingenuity in striking back inside Russian territory. In recent days, Kyiv has targeted Russian military assets, including bomber airfields, the strategically vital Crimean Bridge, and even a highway bridge in Russia. While Ukraine has not officially claimed responsibility for the highway bridge blast — which Russia says killed seven civilians — these actions demonstrate Ukraine’s ability to retaliate and complicate Russia’s logistics and morale.