Ukraine launched a surprising incursion into the Russian region of Kursk this August, marking the first ground invasion by a foreign power on Russian soil since World War II. This bold maneuver aims to divert Russian troops from eastern Ukraine and improve Kyiv's position ahead of potential ceasefire negotiations. Meanwhile, the conflict continues to escalate, with Russian attacks claiming at least 23 lives and injuring over 50 individuals in eastern and southern Ukraine over the past day.
In response, Ukraine's air force successfully intercepted 79 out of 145 drones launched by Russia overnight, while 54 drones failed to reach their targets. Ukrainian forces also shot down at least one of the three missiles used in the Russian assault. The attacks resulted in significant damage to at least eight residential buildings, with fears that more people remain trapped under the rubble.
The development in Kursk places Ukraine under severe pressure, with concerns that they may soon lose a critical logistical support route vital for their forces. Further complicating the situation, fresh North Korean troops have been deployed to bolster Russia's offensive operations within its borders. Ukrainian officials and Western intelligence reports indicate that approximately 12,000 North Korean soldiers have been stationed in the region.
Amid these tensions, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky plans to meet with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia next week, ahead of crucial negotiations between Kyiv and Washington. The United States has temporarily halted military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv as part of efforts to pressure Ukraine into accepting a peace agreement.
Recent drone attacks have also intensified the conflict in other areas. In the eastern Kharkiv region, a drone attack resulted in three fatalities and seven injuries. Meanwhile, five people sustained injuries from attacks in the southern Kherson region.
President Zelensky emphasized the gravity of Russia's tactics, describing them as "a vile and inhumane tactic of intimidation that Russians often use." He further stressed the need for robust defense measures, stating:
"Therefore, it is crucial to continue to do everything to protect lives, strengthen our air defense, and increase sanctions against Russia," – Volodymyr Zelensky
