Putin claims the buffer zone protects Russia from Ukrainian attacks, while Kyiv accuses him of using it for deeper incursions
Moscow
Russia’s top general, Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov, said on Wednesday that President Vladimir Putin has ordered the expansion of a so-called buffer zone in northeastern Ukraine in 2026, according to Russian news agencies.
Gerasimov specified that the buffer zone would be extended in the Sumy and Kharkiv regions, near the Russian border. He inspected the “North” troop grouping, which has operated in the area since early 2024, aiming to push back Ukrainian forces and create a protective zone along the border.
The announcement follows Russia’s recent claims of an alleged attempt to attack Putin’s residence, which Kyiv denied, calling the allegation an effort to undermine peace talks. No immediate response came from Ukraine regarding Gerasimov’s statement.
Putin has consistently presented the buffer zone as a measure to distance Ukrainian troops and weapons from Russian territory, citing cross-border shelling and drone attacks in regions such as Belgorod and Kursk. Kyiv has rejected the notion, saying Russia is using the buffer zone as a pretext for deeper incursions into Ukrainian land.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called Moscow’s plans for Sumy and Kharkiv “mad” and vowed that Ukraine would resist the expansion, emphasizing the country’s determination to defend its territory.
Gerasimov’s remarks underline Moscow’s ongoing military focus in northeastern Ukraine as the conflict nears its fourth year, signaling continued tension and uncertainty in the region despite international calls for dialogue and peace negotiations.
