Enemy trying to deploy sabotage groups in north – Nayev

The Defense Forces of Ukraine in the northern operational zone are fully prepared to repel any threats from the Russian Federation.

Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lieutenant General Serhiy Nayev stated this, Ukrinform reports with reference to the Telegram channel of the command.

According to Nayev, "the forces of the operational-strategic grouping of troops North are fully ready to repel any threats from the Russian Federation."

"The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine has foreseen all possible options of the development of events and is considering appropriate measures to strengthen positions in case of a possible escalation of the situation. Thus, the number of forces and means in this direction is currently sufficient to fulfill the tasks assigned to us by the state leadership," Nayev stressed.

According to him, "as of today, in the entire northern operational zone, Chernihiv and Sumy directions remain the ‘hottest’ ones. The Russian occupiers are shelling our territory with multiple launch rocket systems, artillery and mortars, striking from the air."

"The enemy's attempts to use sabotage and reconnaissance groups have also been recorded," Nayev said. According to the commander, "civilian population and civilian infrastructure objects are most often targeted by Russian killers. The units of the Defense Forces respond adequately and effectively to these manifestations of Russian aggression and do everything possible to preserve people's lives."

“In general, the Russian Federation does not stop trying to conduct military operations in these directions. We understand this and take all necessary measures, primarily to protect the civilian population and strengthen the capabilities of our troops," Nayev stressed.

As Ukrinform reported, on July 17, Russian troops shelled the border area of Chernihiv and Sumy regions eight times using various types of weapons, 46 explosions were recorded.