In a continuing conflict, Russia's military declares control over Kursk, sparking responses from Ukraine and international observers.
Russia Claims Full Control of Kursk Amid Ongoing Ukrainian Resistance
Russia Claims Full Control of Kursk Amid Ongoing Ukrainian Resistance
Tensions escalate in the Kursk region as Russia asserts dominance while Ukraine refutes the claims.
In a recent video conference, Russian military chief Valery Gerasimov declared that the country has regained full control over the Kursk region, a claim Ukraine vehemently denies. According to Gerasimov, the last remaining village held by Ukrainian forces, Gornal, has been liberated, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conflict that began with Ukraine’s incursion eight months ago. During the discussion with President Vladimir Putin, Gerasimov highlighted the "heroism" of North Korean troops, suggesting their substantial contribution to Russia’s military efforts.
Putin characterized Ukraine's attempts in Kursk as a significant failure. In contrast, Ukraine maintains that its troops are still operational within the region, describing Moscow's assertions as "propaganda tricks." Reports indicate that Ukrainian forces have faced considerable challenges, including the overwhelming strength of 70,000 Russian troops and relentless drone assaults as they strive to hold onto their positions.
An update from the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) noted that Russian troops have made advancements near the international border in the Kursk region, asserting that fighting continues in the bordering Belgorod region. It's crucial to note that Gerasimov's unverified claims suggested that over 76,000 Ukrainian soldiers had either died or been wounded in the Kursk area amidst these conflicts.
In a related diplomatic context, US President Donald Trump expressed optimism following talks with Putin, stating that both nations are allegedly "very close to a deal" to conclude the war. This statement follows Trump’s meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Vatican. Despite this diplomatic overture, Zelensky is under escalating pressure from Trump to consider territorial concessions, which he has consistently rejected.
The situation in Kursk remains precarious as Ukraine seeks to stabilize its frontlines while preparing for any potential peace negotiations, hoping to leverage any territorial gains as bargaining chips in future discussions with Russia, which currently occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine’s internationally recognized territory.
Putin characterized Ukraine's attempts in Kursk as a significant failure. In contrast, Ukraine maintains that its troops are still operational within the region, describing Moscow's assertions as "propaganda tricks." Reports indicate that Ukrainian forces have faced considerable challenges, including the overwhelming strength of 70,000 Russian troops and relentless drone assaults as they strive to hold onto their positions.
An update from the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) noted that Russian troops have made advancements near the international border in the Kursk region, asserting that fighting continues in the bordering Belgorod region. It's crucial to note that Gerasimov's unverified claims suggested that over 76,000 Ukrainian soldiers had either died or been wounded in the Kursk area amidst these conflicts.
In a related diplomatic context, US President Donald Trump expressed optimism following talks with Putin, stating that both nations are allegedly "very close to a deal" to conclude the war. This statement follows Trump’s meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Vatican. Despite this diplomatic overture, Zelensky is under escalating pressure from Trump to consider territorial concessions, which he has consistently rejected.
The situation in Kursk remains precarious as Ukraine seeks to stabilize its frontlines while preparing for any potential peace negotiations, hoping to leverage any territorial gains as bargaining chips in future discussions with Russia, which currently occupies approximately 20% of Ukraine’s internationally recognized territory.
