Our priority is to ensure safe living conditions for people before the cold season begins.

Almost every day, residents of Sumy and surrounding communities hear about ballistic missile strikes and drone attacks. People in the regional center, located just 30 kilometers from the Russian border, spend more time under air-raid alerts than without them. We spoke with Artem Kobzar, Acting Mayor of Sumy and Secretary of the Sumy City Council, about how the city manages to live under such difficult conditions and remain a true northern stronghold of Ukraine.

How is your community living today — what has been the biggest challenge during the war?

The main challenge for the Sumy urban community remains the constant security threat. The ongoing hostilities have significantly complicated the operation of the city’s infrastructure: civilian facilities, residential buildings, and utility networks have been damaged. Ensuring essential services — heating, electricity, and water supply — requires increased effort due to regular shelling and emergency situations.

How is the local government working — is it possible to maintain basic services?

The local authorities, together with municipal services, operate in a continuous emergency mode, even during shelling. We are doing everything possible to ensure residents have access to basic services and feel the city’s support during this difficult time.

Has recovery begun — what did you start with, and what is the priority?

We began recovery with the housing stock. Currently, repair work is underway in 28 buildings damaged by enemy attacks. Our priority is to provide people with safe living conditions before the cold season sets in.

How is the community addressing the shortage of resources for repairs and construction?

We are actively cooperating with state institutions and international humanitarian organizations. For example, with the support of UNDP, the community received windows for common areas in damaged residential buildings.

Is there a story or person in your community who has inspired you the most during this time?

We are inspired by Sumy residents who have shown incredible unity and responsibility. These include those who volunteered at checkpoints from the first days of the war, those who delivered fuel, volunteers and NGOs supporting residents of damaged buildings, and entrepreneurs who continue to operate despite constant attacks.

Are businesses, farms, and local industries still operating?

Yes, many businesses and production facilities in the community continue to operate despite difficult conditions and the risks posed by shelling. This demonstrates resilience and confidence in the future of our city, even in the hardest times.

Are there internally displaced persons in the community — how are they integrating?

There are nearly 35,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the community, including more than 27,000 from the Sumy region itself.
We are receiving evacuated residents — more than 5,400 people have been registered, and many have remained in the community. We facilitate temporary accommodation in dormitories of educational institutions, where 251 places are available; currently, 151 families (207 people) live there.
A dedicated IDP Support Space has been set up at the Department premises under a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Danish Refugee Council in Ukraine. It hosts meetings of the IDP Council and joint activities with civil society organizations (training sessions and consultation workshops).
The “Social Space” of the Berehynia Territorial Center is actively operating, providing social services to IDPs and community residents affected by the war. The center offers psychological support, hairdressing services, minor clothing repairs, and manages a bank of clothes, shoes, and other humanitarian aid. Nearly 7,000 people have already used the center’s services.