Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the importance of Russia experiencing the consequences of the war as a significant Ukrainian incursion into the Russian border continued for a third day. Pro-Kyiv forces entered Russia’s southwestern Kursk region with around 1,000 troops and over two dozen armored vehicles and tanks, marking a substantial attack into Russian territory since the war started. Independent analysts noted that Ukrainian troops had advanced up to 10km into Russia.
Zelensky addressed the situation, stating that Ukraine did not choose war but was responding to Russia’s aggression. The Russian defense ministry reported that their troops were engaging in airstrikes, rocket, and artillery fire to push back the Ukrainian forces and prevent them from advancing further into the Kursk region. The Institute for the Study of War confirmed that Ukrainian forces had made significant territorial gains in the incursion.
While Kyiv has not officially claimed responsibility for the operation, an aide to Zelensky attributed the incursion to Russia’s aggression. The situation on the ground remains tense, with limited updates from Russian authorities. The attack caught Russia’s army off guard, leading to criticism of its military leadership by influential military bloggers in the country.
The Ukrainian advance focused on the town of Sudzha, located near the border, with reports indicating that Kyiv had made significant progress in the area. Russian military bloggers highlighted the complexity of the situation, noting that Ukraine was entrenching for potential long-term fighting. The town of Korenevo, over 25km from the border, was also mentioned as a target for Ukrainian troops.
Despite the ongoing conflict, Russian energy giant Gazprom stated that gas shipments through the Sudzha metering station would continue. Moscow reported the destruction of a US-made Bradley Fighting Vehicle used by Ukraine in the incursion. The Russian defense ministry initially blamed a pro-Ukrainian group for the raid but later confirmed Ukraine’s army’s involvement.
The incursion into the Kursk region represents a strategic move by Ukraine, with analysts suggesting that it aims to stretch Russia’s military resources and divert attention from the eastern Donetsk region. The White House expressed interest in learning more about the objectives behind the incursion, while the governor of the Kursk region declared a state of emergency to control the situation.
Evacuations have taken place on both sides of the border as tensions escalate. The situation remains fluid, with uncertainties about the long-term implications of the incursion. The conflict underscores the ongoing challenges in the region and the complex dynamics between Ukraine and Russia.