Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Russia is preparing a new large-scale offensive in the northeastern Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts this spring, according to an interview published by Le Figaro on March 26.
Citing intelligence reports, Zelensky stated that Moscow has been amassing troops along the border in preparation for the assault.
The Ukrainian president revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had initially planned to launch the operation eight months ago. However, the plan was reportedly delayed due to Ukraine’s military actions in Russia’s Kursk Oblast.
“We must look at the situation with our eyes wide open. Putin is preparing a new offensive, particularly in Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts,” Zelensky said, adding that the Kremlin leader was “trying to buy time” while making strategic preparations for an imminent attack.
Growing Tensions Along the Border
Both Sumy and Kharkiv oblasts have been key battlegrounds since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
In May 2023, Russian forces launched a large-scale offensive on Kharkiv Oblast from multiple directions. However, by early June, Ukraine managed to repel the attack, with Zelensky later declaring the Russian operation a failure.
In August 2024, Ukrainian forces launched a cross-border operation into Russia’s Kursk Oblast, capturing approximately 1,300 square kilometers (500 square miles) of territory.
This incursion was seen as an effort to disrupt Russian supply lines and create leverage for potential negotiations.
However, in early March, Russian troops, reinforced by North Korean units, launched a counteroffensive, reclaiming significant areas previously held by Ukrainian forces.
Kyiv on High Alert
On March 15, Zelensky had already warned of increasing Russian military activity along the northeastern border. “We understand this and will take countermeasures,” he wrote on Telegram, emphasizing that Ukraine was closely monitoring the situation and strengthening its defenses.
Military analysts suggest that Russia’s renewed focus on Sumy and Kharkiv may indicate an attempt to stretch Ukraine’s forces thin, forcing them to divert resources from the eastern and southern fronts.
Ukraine’s General Staff has confirmed an uptick in Russian troop movements near the border and has urged residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant.
While Ukraine has received significant military aid from Western allies, recent delays in supplies and ammunition have raised concerns about Kyiv’s ability to counter a full-scale Russian assault.
The country has repeatedly called for additional air defense systems and long-range missiles to strengthen its defensive capabilities.
International Reactions
Zelensky’s warnings have prompted renewed discussions among Ukraine’s Western allies regarding further military support.
The United States and European nations have pledged additional assistance, with NATO officials stating they are “closely monitoring” Russian troop movements.
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed Zelensky’s claims, stating that Russia’s military actions were defensive in nature.
However, the reported troop build-up along the border suggests Moscow may be gearing up for a new phase in the conflict.
As Ukraine braces for a potential Russian offensive this spring, the coming weeks will be critical in determining the course of the war in the country’s northeast.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members