Russia continues its open armed aggression against Ukraine from the territories of Bryansk, Kursk and Belgorod regions. To carry out its tasks, Russia has deployed a group of troops totalling about 19,000 people, Lt-Gen Serhiy Nayev, commander of the Operational And Strategic Group of Troops North, has said in an interview with Ukrinform.
"Russia continues its open armed aggression against Ukraine from the territories of Bryansk, Kursk and Belgorod regions. Enemy units are conducting reconnaissance, shelling border areas, using aviation and kamikaze UAVs, and launching ballistic and cruise missile strikes. In addition to military targets, Russia is trying to destroy energy, transport and industrial infrastructure, and is conducting cynical attacks on residential areas, medical and educational institutions, shopping centres, and warehouses with humanitarian supplies. To carry out these tasks, Russia has deployed a group of troops totalling about 19,000 people. The units are armed with tanks, armoured combat vehicles, artillery and missile systems, air defence systems and tactical missile systems," Nayev said.
He noted that the forces and means of the Operational Zone North continue to conduct stabilisation operations in the designated areas, the situation there remains stable and under control. However, there is a persistent threat of the enemy using sabotage and reconnaissance groups from Russia on the state border of Chernihiv and Sumy regions.
According to Nayev, the command is constantly analysing the situation and taking appropriate measures. Thus, in cooperation with the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, troops and critical infrastructure are being protected from Russian air and missile strikes.
The rearmament of troops with more modern foreign-made weapons, including air defence systems, is also underway.
Fortifications in the border areas have been prepared and are being constantly improved.
The system of minefields and non-explosive barriers in the depths of the defence continues to be built up.
"Currently, there are no signs of the formation of enemy strike groups. We are constantly monitoring and controlling the situation," Nayev said.