Ukraine has initiated a significant counter-offensive in Russia's Kursk region, marked by intense fighting and claims of territorial gains. The conflict escalated when Ukrainian forces engaged North Korean troops, as reported by both military officials and state news agencies. Recent aerial footage published by Russian state news agency Ria displayed a convoy of armored vehicles navigating through the snow-covered landscape, underscoring the ongoing military operations.
The offensive began on Sunday, with Ukraine's top military commanders asserting control over more than 1,200 square kilometers of territory, including 93 villages. President Volodymyr Zelensky characterized the Kursk operation as a crucial step in establishing a buffer zone that prevents Russian forces from being deployed in strategic areas along the eastern front. However, some of the territories regained by Ukraine have been lost again to Russian advances.
Despite these claims of progress, Kyiv's forces are reportedly facing severe manpower shortages. In recent months, they have struggled to maintain ground in the eastern regions of Ukraine as Russian troops have made notable advances. Ukrainian military officials stated that over the past five months, approximately 15,000 Russian soldiers were killed and an estimated 23,000 injured in the Kursk region alone. Both sides have claimed significant casualties, yet these figures remain unverified by independent sources.
Moscow has responded vigorously to the Ukrainian counter-offensive. On Monday, the Russian defense ministry reported that its troops had thwarted a breakthrough attempt by Ukrainian forces, utilizing artillery and air power to counter the attack. The ministry also claimed that Ukraine had suffered losses exceeding 49,000 troops in Kursk, although specific details regarding casualties were not disclosed.
In light of these developments, President Vladimir Putin condemned the Ukrainian offensive as a "major provocation," reflecting the heightened tensions and fears among Russian troops in the Kursk region. Andriy Kovalenko, a military spokesperson, noted the anxiety within Russian ranks, stating, “The Russians in Kursk are experiencing great anxiety because they were attacked from several directions and it came as a surprise to them.”
The conflict's roots trace back to an earlier surprise attack by Ukrainian troops in August, which saw them advance up to 30 kilometers into Russian territory. The reported involvement of North Korean soldiers is believed to be a direct response to this incursion.
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