Ukraine Secures 1,000 Square Kilometres in Russia’s Kursk Region
In a remarkable twist that underscores the escalating tensions in Eastern Europe, Ukraine secures a substantial area of Russia’s Kursk region, according to the country’s top military commander. General Oleksandr Syrskyi, speaking in a video shared by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Telegram, revealed that Ukrainian troops have secured 1,000 square kilometres of territory—a stunning development in the ongoing conflict that has left the Kremlin scrambling for a response.
For the first time, a Ukrainian military official has openly commented on the success of this rapid incursion, which has not only embarrassed Russian leadership but also caused significant disruption along the border. The UK has been closely watching these developments, given its strong support for Ukraine and the broader implications for European security.
In the video, General Syrskyi assured President Zelenskyy, “The troops are fulfilling their tasks. Fighting continues along the entire front line. The situation is under our control.” These words are particularly poignant as Russian forces attempt to regroup after nearly a week of intense combat that took them by surprise.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a meeting with top security officials, claimed that Kyiv’s bold move is an attempt to gain the upper hand in potential peace talks by halting Russia’s offensive in Ukraine’s Donbas region. Despite the setback, Putin insisted that Russia’s military campaign would continue unabated, suggesting that Ukraine’s actions were designed to destabilise Russia internally, a strategy he believes has failed.
Zelenskyy, meanwhile, took to Telegram to commend the bravery and resolve of his soldiers and commanders. However, he remained tight-lipped about the specific goals of the operation, maintaining a shroud of secrecy over the Ukrainian military’s broader strategy. The operation has undoubtedly shifted the dynamics on the ground, challenging Russia’s narrative of invincibility.
The Kursk incursion marks a significant milestone, being the largest attack on Russian soil since World War II. This time, it wasn’t pro-Ukraine fighters leading the charge but the Ukrainian army itself, delivering a blow to Putin’s efforts to portray a Russia unaffected by the ongoing conflict. The incursion has also raised eyebrows internationally, particularly in the UK and across Europe, as it represents a daring escalation that could have far-reaching consequences.
The Russian response has been swift but fraught with challenges. Acting Kursk Governor Alexei Smirnov reported that Ukrainian forces have pushed 12 kilometres into the region, controlling 28 Russian settlements. The conflict has forced the evacuation of approximately 121,000 residents, with reports of civilian casualties adding to the chaos. Smirnov also acknowledged the difficulty in tracking down Ukrainian units operating with fake Russian IDs, further complicating Russia’s defensive efforts.
As the situation unfolds, questions have emerged about the weaponry Ukraine is using. Some Western countries, including the UK, have been cautious about allowing their military aid to be used in strikes within Russian territory, fearing an escalation that could draw NATO into direct conflict with Russia. While it remains unclear what specific weapons were used in the Kursk offensive, there are reports, unverified, that American and German armoured vehicles were involved.
The Kremlin’s control over the narrative is also being tested, with state media downplaying the military’s failure to prepare adequately for the Ukrainian incursion. Videos from Kursk residents, expressing their despair and appealing to Putin for help, have surfaced, though the Kremlin has kept a tight lid on any dissent.
The situation has also rekindled debates about the legality and ethics of Ukraine’s actions. While some, like Italy, have insisted that weapons supplied should not be used to attack Russian territory, others, including Germany, have pointed to international law that allows a nation to defend itself on the attacker’s soil.
As Russian reinforcements enter the fray, analysts suggest that the most challenging phase of Ukraine’s operation may be just beginning. The world watches closely, with the UK and other European nations particularly invested in the outcome, as it could reshape the geopolitical landscape in a conflict that shows no sign of abating.
You can access and download the map here: ISW Interactive Map.
