Russia's Ministry for Emergencies has declared a 'federal level' emergency in the Kursk region following a significant incursion by Ukrainian troops. The situation in Kursk remains challenging, with social services and civic associations providing aid to those displaced by the conflict.
Reports indicate that the surprise Ukrainian operation has led to evacuations of approximately 3,000 people in Kursk. The strategic objectives of the incursion remain unclear, as Ukrainian officials have refrained from commenting on the specifics of the attack.
A top adviser to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy suggested that the border region attacks could signal a shift in the conflict, potentially impacting negotiations with Moscow. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian army continues to face intense Russian pressure in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Donetsk region.
Ukrainian forces have reportedly made rapid advances into the Kursk region, moving as far as 35 kilometers beyond the border. The lack of a coherent Russian response to the incursion has raised concerns, with the Institute for the Study of War noting the operational surprise achieved by Ukrainian forces.
The Russian Defense Ministry has stated that they are actively repelling the invasion, utilizing airstrikes, artillery, and ground troops. In response, Ukraine has employed long-range drones to target military installations and infrastructure in Russian territory.
Recent drone attacks by Ukraine targeted Russia's Lipetsk region, resulting in a fire at a military airfield and damage to electrical infrastructure. The Russian Defense Ministry reported that 75 Ukrainian drones were shot down during the night, with 19 of them over Lipetsk.
The escalating situation underscores the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides engaging in military actions that have far-reaching implications. The international community continues to monitor the developments closely as the crisis unfolds.
For more updates on the war in Ukraine, visit AP's coverage.
