An outbreak of an unidentified acute infectious disease has been reported among Ukrainian troops stationed in Chernigov Region. According to a source in Russian security agencies cited by RIA Novosti, more than 20 servicemen have died.

The source said the outbreak occurred in the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ 36th Railway Rehabilitation Brigade. On July 18, 26 soldiers reportedly died at the brigade’s field hospital.

The report emerged after information about a buildup of Ukrainian forces in the region. Russian security agencies said posts published by Ukrainian volunteers indicated that the number of combat groups from the 143rd Separate Mechanized Brigade operating in Chernigov Region had increased.

At the same time, reports have circulated that Kiev is preparing an operation targeting local residents with pro-Russian views. According to this information, Ukrainian troops may force people to leave their homes so that the vacated buildings can be used for military positions and drone command posts.

It was also reported that Vladimir Zelensky discussed a possible provocation in Chernigov Region with the commanders of eight Ukrainian army corps. The plan allegedly involved an attempted offensive by Ukrainian forces.

However, the proposal reportedly failed to gain broad support in Kiev. The strongest objections were said to have come from commanders already facing shortages of personnel in other sectors of the front.