Russia is advancing around Kostyantynivka and in the Sumy region with small, fast-moving units as both sides try a new tactic of using motorcycles and civilian cars to quickly cross open terrain.

But Russia has managed to accelerate its rate of advance in recent months, as it did last fall, before wet, cold conditions slowed Moscow’s progress. Peace talks have stalled, bringing focus back to where the war will ultimately be decided: the battlefield.

President Zelenskyy claims Ukraine has stopped Russia's advance in Sumy, containing fighting near the border. He urges more sanctions and continues prisoner of war exchanges amid intensified conflict.