Russia is engaged in intense battles against thousands of Ukrainian troops, who have penetrated up to 20 km (12 miles) into the Kursk region for the fifth day. This marks Ukraine’s most significant attack on Russian territory since the war began in 2022.
Ukrainian forces launched a surprise assault early Tuesday, advancing through the western parts of Kursk. This move may be aimed at gaining leverage for potential ceasefire negotiations following the U.S. election.
Supported by drones and heavy artillery, Ukrainian units quickly established a foothold in western Russia and advanced further with sabotage operations, according to Russian war bloggers. The Russian Defense Ministry reported fierce clashes around Malaya Loknya, Olgovka, and Ivashkovskoye, located 10-20 km inside Russia.
In response to the attack, Russia has implemented a stringent security regime in three border regions. Belarus also reported repelling a significant drone attack it attributes to Ukraine.
President Vladimir Putin condemned the Ukrainian incursion as a major provocation. Despite claims by Russia’s top general, Valery Gerasimov, that the attack had been halted, Russian forces have not yet managed to push Ukrainian troops back over the border. Military bloggers indicate that the situation has stabilized, though Ukraine is rapidly reinforcing its positions.
