Russia boosts forces near Chernihiv and Sumy regions: Is there risk of offensive?

According to Demchenko, Russian forces may increase the number of sabotage operations targeting the Sumy and Chernihiv regions in the near future. The Ukrainian side has information indicating that Russia is reinforcing certain units that could be involved in such activities.

"Enemy sabotage activity may increase somewhat in the near future because there is information that the enemy is currently reinforcing certain units that could carry out sabotage operations in the Chernihiv and Sumy directions," the spokesperson said.

At the same time, the current situation does not indicate that Russia is assembling forces for an active offensive in these areas.

Demchenko noted that border guards are not observing an increase in the number of enemy infantry groups or other units that could be used for more intensive assaults on Ukrainian positions.

Therefore, the concern at this stage is a possible increase in sabotage activity rather than confirmed Russian preparations for a large-scale offensive against the Sumy or Chernihiv regions.

At the same time, Demchenko stressed that Ukrainian forces must be prepared for any actions by the enemy.

"We must be ready for any development on the enemy's part," the spokesperson said.

In August, the State Border Guard Service warned that Russia could use the Chernihiv direction for demonstrative actions. According to border guards, the enemy may be trying to create the impression that it is preparing for an offensive and force Ukraine to redeploy additional forces to the north.

At the same time, the situation in the region remains dynamic. Another five communities in the Chernihiv region have been designated as territories of possible hostilities. Two of them were added to the relevant list only partially.