Ukraine has reported further advancements in Russia's Kursk region, a week after initiating a cross-border incursion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukrainian forces had progressed by 1 to 2 kilometers in the southern Kursk region on Wednesday. The incursion has seen Kyiv's forces claim to have captured 100 Russian servicemen and destroy a Russian fighter jet.
The operation aims to create a 'security zone' on Russian soil, particularly to protect the border regions of Ukraine, such as the Sumy region, which has faced continuous Russian artillery and missile fire. Russia has reportedly pulled reserves from key battleground areas in Ukraine and Russian-occupied Crimea to counter Kyiv's advances.
The incursion has led to Russia taking peace negotiations off the table for the foreseeable future. The Russian Foreign Ministry's special envoy announced a pause in talks with Ukraine. Meanwhile, the Russian border region of Belgorod declared an emergency following new attacks by Ukrainian forces, leading to evacuations and appeals for federal emergency assistance.
Ukraine's incursion into Russian territory marks a significant shift in tactics and the first time foreign troops have entered Russian soil since World War II. The situation has escalated with attacks on the Kursk nuclear plant, prompting tightened security measures by Russia's National Guard.
The conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of Russians fleeing their homes, while Ukraine claims to have gained control of significant land in the Kursk region. Ukrainian President Zelensky announced control over 74 settlements in Kursk and preparations for further actions.
Russian President Putin has vowed to repel the Ukrainian forces, but the advance continues. US President Biden acknowledged the situation, stating it poses a dilemma for Putin. The conflict remains ongoing, with both sides engaged in military actions and diplomatic tensions.
