• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy announces military advances in the Sumy region.
• Ukraine claims significant Russian troop losses in Kharkiv and Donetsk.
• Romania condemns recent Russian drone incursions into its airspace amid escalating tensions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported significant advances made by Ukrainian forces in the border districts of the Sumy region, where clashes with Russian troops have intensified in recent months. Zelenskyy indicated that Russian forces have suffered "significant losses" especially in areas like Kharkiv and Donetsk, as Ukrainian units continue to push towards Ukraine's state border, according to Reuters and South China Morning Post.

In his recent video address, Zelenskyy emphasized that “there are good results in the border area of the Sumy region,” and reiterated, “Our units are continuing to advance in the direction of Ukraine’s state border” referring to key military strategies being implemented by his forces. He noted ongoing operations in the Dobropillia direction, a significant point in the eastern Donetsk region which has faced consistent Russian assaults, as reported by Anadolu Agency and Reuters.

Adding to the regional complexities, Romania condemned Russia for a breach of its airspace involving a drone during an attack on Ukraine. The drone incident prompted Romania to summon the Russian ambassador and publicly protest what it described as an "unacceptable and irresponsible act," illustrating escalating tensions in Eastern Europe. Romanian officials highlighted the significance of this breach as a “new challenge” to Black Sea security, which connects to broader regional instability linked to the conflict in Ukraine, according to South China Morning Post and Anadolu Agency.

Furthermore, Zelenskyy pointed out that the Russian military's ongoing drone activities and artillery attacks are not only affecting Ukraine but are also “testing” neighboring countries like Romania and Poland, suggesting that Russia aims to expand its military reach. He expressed concern about Moscow's intentions to extend conflict beyond Ukraine's borders, thereby reinforcing the urgent need for regional solidarity and security measures, as noted by South China Morning Post.