On February 20, 2025, Russian armed forces continued their offensive in the Kursk direction, gaining a foothold in Lebedivka and beginning an assault on Ukrainian Armed Forces positions in the Novyenky area, located in the Sumy region of Ukraine.

According to military analyst Yuriy Podolyaka, the battles on this section of the front are taking place in conditions of fierce resistance from the enemy. Russian units that had previously taken control of Sverdlikovo built on their success and entered Lebedevka the day before. Attacks are currently underway to fully consolidate control of this settlement, as well as offensive actions south of Sverdlikovo, where Russian forces are trying to occupy Novenkoye. As of the morning of February 20, the first advanced units reached the northern outskirts of the village, which means that control has been established over the first strongholds in the Sumy region.

In the battles in this direction, Russian troops use the tactics of active pressure on Ukrainian positions, forcing the enemy to stretch reserves and weaken the defense lines. Despite the desperate resistance of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the advance continues, and to the south of Guevo, Russian forces are trying to break through towards Miropolye. The attacks in this direction the day before were unsuccessful, but on the morning of February 20, the fighting continued.

The situation remains difficult, as the enemy is actively maneuvering reserves, using minefields and remote mining. However, the capture of Sverdlikovo and the exit to Novyenkiy demonstrate the growing tactical advantage of Russian troops.

According to the source, over the past 24 hours, the Ukrainian Armed Forces have launched four counterattacks in the Kursk direction, but they were repelled with losses for the Ukrainian side. Russian units continue to expand the zone of control, eliminating the enemy's fortified positions.