KYIV – Ukrainian troops have launched a bold incursion into the Kursk region of Russia, marking a significant push into enemy territory during the ongoing conflict. This daring operation has exposed vulnerabilities in Russia’s border defense and embarrassed the Kremlin.
Here is a breakdown of key details surrounding the operation:
Commencement of Attack: The surprise attack by Ukrainian forces began on August 6, with troops entering Russia’s Kursk region from multiple directions. This incursion stands out for its scale, speed, and the reported engagement of battle-hardened Ukrainian brigades. Estimates suggest that up to 10,000 Ukrainian troops are involved, making it the first foreign invasion of Russian territory since World War II.
The attack met minimal resistance at the border, catching Russian forces off guard. The Kursk region, previously targeted by Ukrainian drone attacks, was lightly defended, leading to the evacuation of over 120,000 residents.
Ukraine kept its plans hidden and did not inform its allies like the U.S. and Poland. The U.S. has not objected to the use of American-donated weapons in the region.
Current Status: Ukrainian forces claim control over 74 towns and settlements, spanning approximately 1,000 square kilometers. They have taken Russian soldiers captive and destroyed a Russian jet near the front lines.
The Russian Defense Ministry reports ongoing clashes near the border, with fighting concentrated around Sudzha, just 10 kilometers from the frontier. Casualty figures remain unconfirmed, as Russia struggles to counter the Ukrainian advance.
Objectives: Ukraine aims to establish a buffer zone to prevent shelling from the Kursk region, where it has faced over 2,000 attacks this summer. The operation may also divert Russian troops from the Donetsk region, where Moscow has been advancing slowly.
This operation showcases Ukraine’s resilience against a formidable adversary and could strengthen its position in future peace negotiations. Russian President Putin has condemned the incursion as a “large-scale provocation.”
Response: Russia has been taken aback by the magnitude of Ukraine’s offensive, revealing gaps in its defenses and contradicting the Kremlin’s narrative of the conflict. President Putin has labeled it a provocation and redeployed troops from other regions to bolster the Kursk front.
Despite the ongoing hostilities, both sides continue to engage in military actions, with the situation remaining volatile.
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