Ukrainian forces are reportedly “strengthening” their positions in newly captured territory within Russia, as confirmed by President Volodymyr Zelensky. This development marks a significant advance, with Ukrainian troops now two weeks into their incursion in Russia’s Kursk region—their deepest move since the onset of Moscow’s full-scale invasion over two years ago.
According to military reports, Ukrainian troops are continuing to extend their foothold in Kursk. The Russian government has characterized this incursion as a serious provocation, promising a “worthy response.”
In a message on Telegram, President Zelensky praised the efforts of his soldiers and commanders for taking Russian military prisoners and facilitating the release of Ukrainian captives held by Russia. He also acknowledged reports from General Syrskyi regarding the bolstering of forces in the Kursk region and the expansion of stabilized territories.
While Ukrainian forces claim control over more than 80 settlements, the Russian military reports counter that they have successfully repelled Ukrainian attempts near three settlements and are actively searching for “mobile enemy groups” trying to infiltrate deeper.
This statement follows Ukraine’s destruction of a strategically vital bridge over the Seym River, which had been essential for Russian supply lines. The Russian foreign ministry reported that the bridge was “completely destroyed,” claiming that volunteers aiding the evacuation of civilians were killed in the incident.
Despite Ukraine’s advances in the western Russian territory, Russian forces are simultaneously making gains in eastern Ukraine, capturing multiple towns in recent weeks. Ukrainian officials noted that Russia launched attacks on at least four Ukrainian regions, including the northeastern Kharkiv region, with President Zelensky highlighting “dozens of Russian assaults” near the cities of Toretsk and Pokrovsk.
Pokrovsk serves as a crucial logistics center for supplying Ukrainian troops along the eastern front. President Zelensky reassured that Ukrainian forces are fully committed to repelling the attacks, stating the situation remains “under control.”
