Image Credits: Financial Times
Russian military operations to counter Ukrainian attempts to advance into the Kursk Region are in full swing, with recent reports detailing significant developments in the conflict. According to the Russian Defence Ministry, the operation to eliminate Ukrainian formations near the state border is ongoing, following a large-scale Ukrainian attack on August 6.
Acting Governor Alexey Smirnov reported that he briefed President Vladimir Putin on the situation, who has pledged full support and personal oversight of the response. The Russian leader assured that the situation is being closely monitored.
Fighting near the border has been intense, with Russian Army troops and Federal Security Service (FSB) border protection units working to counter Ukrainian armed formations. The ongoing operation has been successful in thwarting Ukrainian attempts to penetrate deeper into Russian territory. Ukrainian reserves near Basovka, Zhuravka, Yunakovka, and other localities in the Sumy Region have been targeted, with over 20 unmanned aerial vehicles and several projectiles intercepted by Russian air defence forces.
Casualties have been significant on both sides. The conflict has resulted in five fatalities and 24 injuries in the Kursk Region alone. Ukrainian forces have reportedly sustained around 260 casualties and lost 50 pieces of armoured equipment, including tanks, APCs, and armoured combat vehicles. Additionally, two Buk-M1 missile systems, a UR-77 demining system, and a jamming station were destroyed.
In response to the escalating violence, over 200 civilians have been evacuated from shelled areas, with an additional 1,000 leaving independently. Temporary accommodations have been established for 302 people, including over 120 children. Neighbouring regions, including Oryol, Voronezh, and Moscow, have offered support, with medical personnel dispatched from Moscow and St. Petersburg. The People’s Front is raising funds to support Russian servicemen, and the ruling United Russia party is organizing humanitarian deliveries.
The official Russian response includes a strong stance against Ukrainian efforts. Major General Apty. Alaudinov declared that Ukrainian forces cannot capture the Kursk nuclear power plant. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for allegedly sending citizens into harm’s way to extend mobilization.