Russia, Ukraine report gains as fighting intensifies

 Ukrainian forces have advanced in northern Sumy region while Russian troops pressed attacks near Pokrovsk, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said in its latest report on Monday.

Ukrainian military observer Kostyantyn Mashovets said Kyiv’s troops recaptured the village of Bezsalivka, northwest of Sumy, while Russian forces seized Yunakivka after weeks of fighting. Battles continue along the Russian incursion perimeter, he added.

Russian forces kept up assaults in northern Kharkiv region on Sept. 8 but failed to advance, ISW said, citing Ukrainian commanders who reported Russian small-unit attacks disrupted by drones.

Fighting also persisted on the Kupiansk axis, with Russian military bloggers claiming gains northwest of the city, though ISW said it found no confirmation. Geolocated footage indicated Ukrainian advances near Lyman.

ISW noted that Russian forces advanced in the Kostiantynivka–Druzhkivka area and appeared to be preparing an assault on Pokrovsk. The think tank said Moscow’s recent attacks suggest it has “no intention of halting the war despite talks and U.S. calls,” and noted increasing strikes on civilian areas.