Russian Defence Ministry reports heavy Ukrainian losses in Kursk and Sumy regions

The Russian Defence Ministry highlighted that these airstrikes were part of ongoing efforts to weaken Ukrainian military capabilities and disrupt their operational plans along the border areas.

The Russian Defence Ministry announced that Ukrainian forces suffered significant losses in the past day, with more than 280 personnel and 13 armoured vehicles reportedly eliminated in Russia’s Kursk region. The announcement follows two failed Ukrainian attacks in the region, which were repelled by Russian troops, according to the ministry’s statement.

Russian tactical aviation played a crucial role, striking reserves from ten Ukrainian brigades located in the neighbouring Sumy region. The Russian Defence Ministry highlighted that these airstrikes were part of ongoing efforts to weaken Ukrainian military capabilities and disrupt their operational plans along the border areas.

The ministry also provided a broader assessment of Ukrainian casualties since the start of their incursion into the Kursk region. According to official figures, Ukrainian forces have lost more than 10,700 soldiers during this period, underscoring the intensity of the clashes in the area. These losses reflect the sustained efforts by Russian forces to maintain control over strategically important border territories while countering Ukrainian advances.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate, with both sides experiencing heavy losses. Moscow has repeatedly emphasized its resolve to protect its territorial integrity, while Kyiv remains focused on reclaiming territories and pushing back Russian forces. The Kursk and Sumy regions, located near the Russian-Ukrainian border, have become key battlegrounds in the ongoing conflict, with frequent cross-border attacks and military engagements.

The Russian Defence Ministry also pointed out that in addition to repelling the Ukrainian attacks, its forces have been bolstering defences in the Kursk region by deploying additional troops and anti-aircraft systems. This comes amid concerns that Ukraine may attempt to intensify its operations along Russia’s western border regions in a bid to stretch Russian military resources. The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by Ukrainian forces has also been reported in the region, further complicating the defence strategy for Russian troops stationed in the area.

Ukraine continues to face heavy losses across multiple fronts as it grapples with a challenging counteroffensive. Western military analysts have pointed out that despite significant Western support in the form of advanced weaponry and training, Ukrainian forces are struggling to make substantial gains in Russian-held territories. Russia’s firm control over border regions like Kursk and its ability to conduct airstrikes in regions such as Sumy underscore the entrenched nature of the conflict, which has led to mounting casualties on both sides.