Ukraine Advances in Kursk Region, Controls Over 1,250 Square Kilometres

Ukraine Advances in Kursk Region, Controls Over 1,250 Square Kilometres

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced a major strategic advance, revealing that Ukrainian forces have successfully taken control of more than 1,250 square kilometres in Russia's Kursk region. This significant territorial gain includes 92 settlements, underscoring Ukraine's expanding influence in the region. Zelenskyy made this announcement during a meeting with the heads of Ukraine's foreign diplomatic missions on Monday.

In his statement, Zelenskyy highlighted that this operation has also led to the capture of the largest number of Russian prisoners in a single military action. This marks a pivotal moment in Ukraine's ongoing efforts to secure the release of Ukrainians held captive by Russian forces. Last week, Zelenskyy acknowledged that these captured Russian soldiers might be used in a future prisoner exchange, furthering Ukraine's diplomatic leverage.

"Our robust defensive actions beyond our borders, coupled with Putin's inability to safeguard Russian territory, speak volumes. Our proactive and preemptive defense measures serve as the most effective response to Russian aggression, creating substantial challenges for the invading forces," Zelenskyy emphasized.

In response to the Ukrainian incursion, Russian authorities reported that over 121,000 residents have been evacuated from the Kursk region since the onset of the conflict. To accommodate the displaced, 84 temporary shelters have been established, including facilities set up in sports centers, as shown on Russian state television.

Ukraine's Strategy: Establishing a Buffer Zone

Zelenskyy also clarified Ukraine's strategic intentions behind the military operation in the Kursk region. On Sunday, he stated that the primary goal is to establish a "buffer zone" to prevent further Russian attacks across the border. This was the first time Zelenskyy explicitly outlined the objective of the operation, which began on August 6.

He further added that if Ukraine's international allies were to lift restrictions on the use of long-range weaponry within Russian territory, Ukraine could potentially avoid direct incursions into regions like Kursk. This would enable Ukraine to better protect its citizens in border areas and neutralize Russia's capacity for future aggression.