Ukrainian Soldiers Reflect on Chaotic Retreat from Kursk Region

Ukrainian troops stationed in the Kursk region describe a chaotic withdrawal marked by intense fighting and heavy losses. Soldiers share personal accounts of the situation on the ground, revealing the strategic challenges and emotional toll as they retreat against overwhelming Russian forces.

Ukrainian soldiers fighting in Russia's Kursk region have come forward to share harrowing accounts of their chaotic retreat from the front lines, describing the scenario as reminiscent of a "horror movie." In the face of mounting attacks, including drone bombardments, these troops convey the despair and urgency of their withdrawal, with many noting the "catastrophic" conditions they faced as they lost significant ground.

On March 9, a soldier identified as "Volodymyr" communicated with the BBC, relaying a scene of panic and disarray in the town of Sudzha, which was then under Ukrainian control. He described how supply lines, once secure, had become vulnerable due to constant drone surveillance and assaults. “Drones around the clock” made daytime evacuation almost impossible, he emphasized, as Russian forces exerted control over critical routes.

By March 11, another soldier, "Maksym," reported increasing difficulties as the Ukrainian command ordered an organized retreat. He highlighted the overwhelming force amassed by Russia, including significant troop numbers allegedly comprising North Korean soldiers. Drones, particularly FPV (first-person-view) models, were instrumental in neutralizing Ukrainian defenses and led to the destruction of military equipment on supply routes.

The situation continued to deteriorate on the same day, as "Anton," a soldier stationed at the Kursk headquarters, characterized the retreat as “catastrophic.” With logistics severely disrupted, the complexity of aiding troops in the field became apparent. Anton observed, “We almost died several times,” revealing the treacherousness of what should have been a coordinated withdrawal.

In sharing his experiences, "Dmytro" painted an even grimmer picture. He likened the chaotic escape to scenes out of a horror film, littered with wrecked vehicles and the reality of wounded soldiers amid relentless drone attacks. His account underscored the dangers of retreating units being targeted while escaping, leading to significant casualties.

Despite the overwhelming hardship, not all soldiers shared the same outlook. "Artem," recuperating from injuries in a military hospital, recounted fierce resistance mounted by Ukrainian forces in some locales. His perspective suggested that while losses were heavy, there remained pockets of success in curbing Russian advances.

Military analyses indicate a stark reality: Ukraine has lost approximately two-thirds of the ground initially gained in the offensive, reshaping the strategic landscape. As discussions around future military strategies persist, Ukrainian General Oleksandr Syrskyi insists that their forces are regrouping in more advantageous positions.

President Volodymyr Zelensky later conveyed that the Kursk operation had met some objectives, yet the high cost of the campaign continues to loom over Ukraine's military ambitions. The future of the conflict remains uncertain as both sides reassess their positions and tactics in a war that shows no signs of abating.