Ukraine's HUR claims 108 Russian soldiers killed, 29 captured in Sumy Oblast operation

Ukrainian special forces claimed to have killed 108 Russian soldiers and captured 29 during a seven-week operation in Sumy Oblast, according to Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR). The operation, conducted by Group 10 special forces unit, aimed to thwart Russian offensive plans and prevent them from cutting off Ukrainian logistical routes in the region.

Ukrainian operatives cleared over 600 hectares of forest and handed over the positions to Ukraine's Defense Forces. HUR did not specify the exact location or timing of the operation, and the Kyiv Independent could not independently verify these claims. Ukraine's defensive operations in the first six months of 2026 had already reduced the pace of Russia's territorial advances by more than half, with then-Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reporting on July 10.

Separately, Ukraine's 3rd Army Corps reported significant territorial gains in northern Donetsk Oblast as part of Operation Vivaldi, with more than 2,000 Russian casualties and the capture of over 250 Russian soldiers.