Egypt Daily News – Ukraine has reported making significant advances in the Kursk region along the Russian border, stating that it aims to create a “buffer zone” to enhance protection against ongoing bombings, as well as establish “humanitarian corridors” for aid to Russian civilians.
This comes in the wake of a major offensive launched by Ukrainian forces on August 6, which marked the largest foreign military incursion into Russian territory since World War II.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shared updates on Telegram, indicating that Ukrainian troops have made gains of up to two kilometers in various areas, with over a hundred Russian soldiers captured. He expressed confidence in achieving Ukraine’s strategic objectives, claiming that developments on the battlefield were progressing favorably.
In response to Ukraine’s actions, the Russian military reported having repelled attacks aimed at further penetration into the Kursk region, asserting that they inflicted heavy losses on Ukrainian forces.
The Russian Defense Ministry emphasized their success in thwarting attempts by Ukrainian mobile groups with armored vehicles to advance deeper into Russian territory.
Amid the ongoing conflict, the governor of the Kursk region announced the evacuation of additional districts, following significant evacuations in light of escalating hostilities.
Ukrainian forces targeted key airports in central and western Russia as part of their campaign. Ukrainian Interior Minister Igor Klimenko articulated efforts to create a buffer zone aimed at safeguarding residents from “daily hostile bombing.”
The situation has led to a humanitarian crisis, with reports indicating that over 120,000 residents have fled the region due to the conflict, resulting in civilian casualties, including deaths and injuries.
Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Irina Vereshchuk mentioned the opening of humanitarian corridors to aid civilian evacuation amidst the ongoing strife.
Meanwhile, Zelensky characterized the situation in the Kursk region as involving “difficult and intense” battles, with Ukrainian forces reportedly gaining control of numerous towns.
Russian authorities have acknowledged losses in territory, with Ukrainian forces expanding their control over approximately 800 square kilometers in that region.
Local residents in border areas exhibit mixed responses to the conflict, with some choosing to stay despite government evacuation advisories.
On the international stage, U.S. President Joe Biden recognized the offensive as a “real dilemma” for Russian President Vladimir Putin, as Ukraine appears to regain momentum after prolonged challenges on the Eastern Front. The situation remains tense, with mixed sentiments in Moscow regarding the events unfolding in Kursk.
