In a dramatic turn of events, Russian forces are on the brink of reclaiming Kursk from Ukrainian control after a surprising incursion by Ukraine in August. This bold move marked the first ground invasion of Russian soil by a foreign power since World War II. The region of Kursk, located in western Russia, has reportedly been used by Ukraine as a bargaining chip in ongoing negotiations. Russian military efforts have proven formidable, with more than 86% of the area recaptured, according to General Valery Gerasimov.
The conflict has led to the capture of 430 Ukrainian soldiers by Russian forces, who now have the remaining Ukrainian troops surrounded. Russian forces, in a controversial move, have conducted airstrikes on their own land, including the town of Sudzha, which suffered significant destruction. The Institute for the Study of War noted that geolocated footage confirmed Russian forces had seized Sudzha and were advancing beyond the town.
President Vladimir Putin made an unannounced visit to the occupied Kursk region on Wednesday. His presence aimed to bolster troop morale and emphasize the urgency of expelling the remaining Ukrainian forces. He addressed frontline troops, reiterating Moscow's objective to "completely liberate" Kursk swiftly. Additionally, he proposed creating a "buffer zone" along Russia's border with Ukraine to prevent further incursions.
The operation to eliminate the remaining Ukrainian presence has reached its concluding phase, as stated by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov. Despite these advances, Ukraine's top general Oleksandr Syrskyi hinted at strategic retreats to "more favorable positions" to safeguard Ukrainian soldiers' lives. Consequently, Ukraine's army has conceded to losing several settlements in Kursk recently.
The fate of the captured Ukrainian soldiers remains uncertain, as President Putin has labeled them "terrorists." Meanwhile, international attention has shifted towards potential diplomatic solutions. US President Donald Trump remarked on the situation's gravity, stating:
"We're going to have to see. It's up to Russia now." – US President Donald Trump
This statement coincides with reports that US representatives are heading to Russia to discuss a ceasefire proposal, placing the onus on Russia to decide the course of action.
