Mandatory evacuation begins in Sumy region's Nova Sloboda

The Sumy Regional Military Administration said this in a statement seen by Ukrinform.

The evacuation order was signed by regional governor Oleh Klymenko due to the ongoing threat to civilian life in border areas.

"The decision has been made due to a constant threat to civilians in border areas. Due to systematic shelling by Russian forces, staying in the village has become extremely dangerous," the statement reads.

Today, six residents, including two children, evacuated from the village on their own.

Nova Sloboda is the 202nd settlement in the Sumy region from which evacuation is being carried out. So far, residents have been fully evacuated from 52 settlements, located both within and beyond the five-kilometer zone from the Russian border.

"Local government agencies will provide residents with all necessary information regarding evacuation, relocation, humanitarian aid, and social support. Residents of border communities are urged not to delay evacuation. Remaining in a high-risk area under constant shelling is a direct threat to life," the administration said.

Russian forces launched nearly 240 strikes on the Sumy region between the morning of May 12 and the morning of May 13, killing one person.

Photo: Kordon.Media