Russia has reported that Ukraine launched another offensive in the Kursk region, which is located near the Russia-Ukraine border. The attack happened on Thursday, marking six months since Ukraine first crossed into Russian territory in a surprise ground assault. Since then, Ukraine has captured several Russian settlements and continues to hold onto some areas.
According to Russia’s defense ministry, Ukrainian forces tried to advance but were stopped by Russian troops. The fighting took place near the villages of Ulanok and Cherkasskaya Konopelka, which are about 10 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. Reports suggest that Ukraine used tanks, armored vehicles, and two mechanized battalions for the attack.
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While Ukrainian officials have not made direct comments about the latest offensive, President Volodymyr Zelensky praised his soldiers for their efforts in Kursk. He awarded state honors to several units and stated, "The occupier can and should be beaten on its territory."
Zelensky has been using the Kursk operation as proof of Ukraine’s strength. He believes that controlling parts of Russian land will help Ukraine in future peace negotiations. The Ukrainian military also reported that they have captured 909 Russian soldiers over the past six months. Recently, both Ukraine and Russia exchanged 150 prisoners of war each.
Meanwhile, Russian locals in Kursk have expressed concern about family members stranded in the conflict zone. Russian President Vladimir Putin admitted that the situation is very difficult in that region. Despite this, Russian forces continue their steady progress in eastern Ukraine.