Russian forces repel Ukrainian incursions at Kursk border

The Kursk region, located in western Russia and bordering northeastern Ukraine, has seen a rise in cross-border attacks in recent weeks.

Russian troops successfully repelled three Ukrainian attempts to breach the border in the Kursk region over the past 24 hours, according to the Russian Defence Ministry. The attacks occurred near several key villages as Ukrainian forces aimed to penetrate Russian defences amid escalating tensions in the region. This marks the latest flare-up in an increasingly volatile area along the Russia-Ukraine border.

The Defence Ministry’s statement detailed that Ukrainian forces had launched coordinated efforts to break through Russian positions but were ultimately pushed back by heavy artillery fire and ground forces. The ministry did not specify the exact number of casualties but indicated significant losses on both sides. The statement emphasised that Russian forces remained in full control of the border, with all attempted incursions successfully thwarted.

The Kursk region, located in western Russia and bordering northeastern Ukraine, has seen a rise in cross-border attacks in recent weeks. Ukraine’s ongoing counteroffensive, launched in multiple directions since June 2023, has increasingly targeted Russian border regions. These incursions are part of a broader strategy to disrupt Russian supply lines, pressure Moscow militarily, and push for negotiations from a stronger position.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has defended such operations, stressing that they are intended to weaken Russia’s military capability and create leverage for Kyiv in any future peace talks. However, Moscow views these incursions as provocations that endanger Russian sovereignty and escalate the conflict. The Kremlin has responded by reinforcing its defences in border regions, deploying additional troops, and launching retaliatory strikes.

The situation in Kursk has contributed to rising tensions in the broader war, now well into its second year. Russian regions like Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk have seen increasing attacks, including drone strikes and artillery fire. Local authorities have reported numerous civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, heightening public concern within Russia.