Border Guard Service reports increased activity of Russian sabotage groups in northern Ukraine

Increased number of enemy group incursions

Andrii Demchenko, a representative of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, reported an increase in the activity of Russian sabotage and reconnaissance groups (SRGs) in the territory of Sumy and Chernihiv regions.

«Якщо порівнювати з певним періодом, коли активності ворожих диверсійно-розвідувальних груп практично не було, то зараз по кілька випадків і в межах Сумської, і в межах Чернігівської областей вже зафіксовано. Задача таких груп - вивідати побудову нашої оборони, вивідати, де знаходяться позиції. Якщо їм вдається, то і власними силами намагаються атакувати українські позиції» (If compared to a certain period when the activity of enemy sabotage and reconnaissance groups was virtually non-existent, several cases have now been recorded both within Sumy and Chernihiv regions. The task of such groups is to scout the structure of our defence and identify where positions are located. If they succeed, they also attempt to attack Ukrainian positions with their own forces), Demchenko noted on a television programme.

Mine-laying attempts and enemy tactics

In addition to reconnaissance tasks, enemy formations are actively using engineering countermeasures. The Border Guard Service spokesperson emphasised that attempts to mine the area are regularly detected during anti-sabotage operations.

«Тобто ворог, відходячи, намагається зробити так, щоб наші воїни підірвалися на тих засобах, які противник встановлює під час своїх дій» (In other words, the enemy, while retreating, tries to ensure that our warriors step on the devices the opponent installs during its actions), he added.

Detection and countermeasure methods

To detect sabotage groups in a timely manner, the Defence Forces employ unmanned aerial vehicles. Border guards also receive prior intelligence on possible directions of SRG penetration, allowing them to promptly carry out appropriate countermeasures.

Situation in Kharkiv region

Andrii Demchenko also drew attention to events in Kharkiv region, where the enemy is attempting to expand its zone of control. According to the spokesperson, the enemy is trying to destroy positions held by Ukrainian defenders.

«Ворог намагається знищувати позиції, які утримують українські захисники, з надією, що в подальшому піхотні групи зможуть легше просуватися. Але знову ж таки ворог несе великі втрати» (The enemy is trying to destroy positions held by Ukrainian defenders, hoping that infantry groups will be able to advance more easily in the future. But once again, the enemy is suffering heavy losses), the State Border Guard Service representative said.