Russia Army

Ukrainian servicemen operate a Soviet-made T-72 tank in the Sumy region, near the border with Russia, on August 12, 2024, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

President Vladimir Putin ordered his army on Monday to "dislodge" Ukrainian troops who have entered Russian territory as authorities said over 120,000 people had been evacuated away from the fighting.

Ukrainian forces have undertaken a strategic withdrawal to new positions in at least three key areas, according to statements from Colonel-General Oleksandr Syrskyi, commander-in-chief of the Ukrainian armed forces. The move comes amidst heightened conflict dynamics, with Ukrainian troops facing increasing pressure from Russian forces in several strategic locations.