MWE Correspondent
Russian President Vladimir Putin stirred fresh concern on Friday by suggesting his forces might take control of the Ukrainian city of Sumy, located near the Russia–Ukraine border.
Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin said he did not “rule out” the possibility of capturing Sumy as part of a plan to establish a wider buffer zone along Russia’s border to protect against Ukrainian attacks.
While admitting that seizing Sumy was not an immediate goal, Putin pointed to what he described as ongoing Ukrainian shelling of border areas as justification for such a move. Sumy, just 30 kilometers (around 18 miles) from Russia, has endured heavy bombardment since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.
Beyond the military threat, Putin reiterated his long-standing view that Russians and Ukrainians are “one people,” undermining Ukraine’s sovereignty. He said, “Wherever a Russian soldier sets foot, that is ours,” echoing past Kremlin narratives that dismiss Ukraine’s independence.
The Ukrainian government quickly condemned Putin’s remarks. Officials see this rhetoric as part of Russia’s ongoing campaign to delegitimize Ukraine’s nationhood and justify territorial aggression. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his team have emphasized their commitment to defend Sumy and other regions from further Russian advances.
Sumy oblast has seen intense fighting. Earlier this month, Russian forces reportedly captured several villages in the region, signaling a potential buildup for a larger offensive. Analysts note that Russia has amassed tens of thousands of troops near Sumy and the nearby city of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, indicating preparations for a possible summer escalation.
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At the same forum, Putin said Russia submitted peace proposals involving countries like Israel and Iran. However, many observers remain skeptical, viewing these diplomatic efforts as overshadowed by ongoing military operations and persistent conflict.
For residents of Sumy, the possibility of Russian occupation is deeply troubling. The city has already endured years of conflict, displacement, and destruction. A further Russian push would likely worsen the humanitarian crisis and destabilize the broader region.
As tensions rise, the international community watches closely. Putin’s comments suggest Russia is keeping the door open for renewed offensives, making the war’s future uncertain. For Ukraine and its allies, protecting cities like Sumy is critical—not only strategically but also for preserving the country’s sovereignty and the lives of millions caught in the conflict.
