The analytical project DeepState confirmed that the village of Hrabovske in Sumy region came under the control of Russian forces. The settlement, located directly on the border line with Russia, was captured after enemy forces crossed Ukraine's state border.
Details of the village capture
According to DeepState, a group of Ukrainian fighters who were holding the border section in the village of Hrabovske acted irresponsibly in carrying out their tasks, which led to the penetration of Russian forces into Ukrainian territory. The incident began on the night of December 20, when Russian troops entered the border village.
Civilians and military in captivity
President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russian forces took 52 civilians prisoner who had refused evacuation and remained in the village. Among the prisoners:
- 17 men of conscription age
- Women and children
- 13 military personnel of Ukraine's Defense Forces
The President expressed surprise that children remained in the village, noting: "I'm surprised that parents treat their children this way. These 52 people lived there, didn't relocate, and accordingly have some dialogue or relations with those on Russian Federation territory."
Ukrainian side's position
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine's Armed Forces could have destroyed the enemy at distance with artillery and drones, but refrained from doing so to avoid harm to civilians. "We will restore all positions there. That's clear. What comes next, how to return people - these are other steps," the president stated.
According to the Main Intelligence Directorate, "stabilization measures" are ongoing in the village area to resolve the situation and restore control over the territory.
