Despite claims from Russia of full recovery of the Kursk territory, Ukraine's military leadership confirms they are still defending approximately 90 square kilometers. The situation remains critical as Ukrainian forces encounter considerable opposition from Russian troops bolstered by reinforcements from North Korea.
Ukraine's Defense Continues in Russia's Kursk Region Amid Ongoing Tensions
Ukraine's Defense Continues in Russia's Kursk Region Amid Ongoing Tensions
Ukrainian forces maintain control over a small area in Russia's Kursk region, facing intense opposition from a significantly reinforced Russian military.
Ukraine's commander-in-chief, Oleksandr Syrsky, confirmed that Ukrainian forces are still holding a strategic foothold inside Russia’s Kursk region, a territory they captured during a surprise incursion in August 2024. This offensive saw Ukrainian troops seize over 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles) of land but has since met fierce resistance.
Syrsky reported that approximately 10,000 Russian soldiers are currently engaged in efforts to displace Ukrainian forces from the remaining territory they occupy, which he stated amounts to about 90 square kilometers (35 square miles). The commander vowed to intensify their military operations against Russian forces, underscoring that the focus remains on military targets rather than civilian areas.
The offensive that commenced on August 6, 2024, allowed Ukraine to capture numerous villages and establish a buffer zone intended to prevent Russian military deployments to critical frontlines in eastern Ukraine. However, the momentum for Ukrainian advances faced significant hurdles after Russia reinforced its defenses, deploying thousands of troops from North Korea to the region.
Reports indicate that since the incursion, Ukrainian forces have been in retreat, challenging them in the face of over 70,000 Russian troops bolstered by heavy aerial drone assaults. As the situation evolves, North Korea's involvement has been particularly notable; last autumn, the nation sent an estimated 11,000 troops to assist Russian efforts. According to Western officials, casualties on the North Korean side have been substantial, with at least 1,000 reported killed within a short timeframe.
The North Korean government has recently indicated plans to send additional support in the form of mine-clearing units and builders to the Kursk region in a bid to restore transportation and logistics after damage incurred from the ongoing conflict.
