Image Credits: NY Times
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian forces have advanced further into Russian territory, particularly in the Kursk region. This move signifies a significant shift in the war dynamics, as Ukrainian troops continue to push beyond their borders.
The operation, described as a large-scale military incursion, saw around 1,000 Ukrainian troops, supported by tanks, artillery, and drones, breaking through Russian defensive lines. According to Zelensky, this advance is part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to pressure the aggressor and restore justice following Russia’s invasion in 2022.
The Ukrainian President praised his army’s ability to “surprise” and “achieve results,” emphasizing that the incursion into Russian territory demonstrates Ukraine’s growing military capabilities. He noted that the Ukrainian forces had successfully penetrated up to 10 kilometres into Russian land, breaking through two defensive lines and advancing towards key strategic locations, including the Kursk nuclear power station.
This development has prompted a strong response from Moscow. Russian President Vladimir Putin has labelled the incursion a “major provocation” and imposed a state of emergency in the affected regions. Russian forces are reported to be battling to regain control, with heavy fighting occurring near the town of Sudzha. Despite claims from the Russian defence ministry that they have halted the Ukrainian advance, reports from the ground suggest that clashes are ongoing.
The situation remains tense, with significant damage reported in the Kursk region, including casualties and the evacuation of thousands of residents. The conflict continues to evolve, and both sides remain entrenched, with no clear resolution in sight. This latest escalation underscores the increasingly unpredictable nature of the war, raising concerns about further international ramifications.