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Ukraine’s top military commander, Oleksandr Syrskyi, has announced that Ukrainian forces now control approximately 1,000 square kilometers of Russian territory following an ambitious cross-border offensive into the Kursk region. This marks the most significant Ukrainian incursion into Russian-held land since the conflict escalated into full-scale war.
The offensive, which began last Tuesday, has seen Ukrainian troops advance up to 30 kilometers into Russia. Syrskyi’s statement comes amid conflicting reports; while the US-based Institute for the Study of War expresses skepticism about the extent of Ukrainian control, Russian officials confirm significant territorial losses.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced the incursion as a “major provocation,” directing Russian forces to expel the Ukrainian troops. In response to the escalating conflict, Russian authorities have evacuated over 121,000 people from affected regions, with 59,000 more advised to leave. Russian officials report casualties and damaged infrastructure, with 28 villages reportedly overrun by Ukrainian forces.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has framed the incursion as a direct consequence of Russia’s aggression, stating that “Russia brought war to others, now it’s coming home.” Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to peace despite the ongoing conflict.
The offensive has reportedly bolstered Ukrainian morale but raises concerns about potential increased Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilians. Analysts warn that Russia might intensify its military response in retaliation.
Former US Ambassador to NATO, Kurt Volker, suggests that the incursion could politically damage Putin, highlighting the domestic implications of the conflict. Meanwhile, US Senator Lindsey Graham praised the operation, urging for continued and enhanced support for Ukraine.
In related developments, the International Atomic Energy Agency inspected a damaged cooling tower at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant following a fire, though the cause remains unclear. President Zelensky has accused Russia of using the fire as a tactic to pressure Ukraine, a claim that the Kremlin-installed regional governor attributes to Ukrainian shelling.
