Advancing into Russian Territory
Ukraine’s military has made significant gains in Russia’s Kursk region, with troops advancing as much as 10 kilometers into Russian territory. According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Ukrainian soldiers have breached at least two Russian defensive lines, marking one of the largest cross-border incursions since the war began.
Russian Defense Ministry Responds
Russia’s defense ministry confirmed the incursion, stating that attempts by Ukrainian troops to break through deep into Russian territory are being suppressed. However, the Russian army has been unable to stop Ukraine’s advance, with reports suggesting that Ukrainian forces have seized the Sudzha checkpoint and captured over 40 Russian prisoners of war.
Governor Denies Ukraine’s Advancements
Despite Russia’s claims, the Kursk region’s acting deputy governor, Andrei Belostotsky, refuted the allegations of Ukraine’s advancement. According to Belostotsky, Ukraine’s troops have not advanced a single meter and are instead retreating. The Russian military has also been destroying Ukrainian equipment and combat forces.
Kyiv’s Strategy
Analysts believe that Ukraine’s aim is to draw Russian reserves to the area, potentially weakening Moscow’s offensive operations in eastern Donetsk region. However, this strategy could also risk stretching outmanned Ukrainian troops further along the front line, which stretches over 1,000 kilometers. The cross-border incursion would be one of Ukraine’s largest since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Unprecedented Deployment
The deployment of Ukrainian military units in Russia’s Kursk region is unprecedented. In March, exiled pro-Ukraine Russian fighters attacked the Belgorod and Kursk regions but were pushed back with no gains to show. This latest incursion marks a bold move by Ukraine’s military, which could have significant implications for the ongoing conflict.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Reuters
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