Russia Asserts Full Control Over Kursk Region Amid Ongoing Ukraine Denials

Russia's military leadership has declared it has regained dominant control over the Kursk region, a claim that Ukraine categorically disputes, underscoring the ongoing complexities of the conflict which saw attempts for territorial negotiations.

Russia's army chief, General Valery Gerasimov, stated in a dialogue via video conference with President Vladimir Putin that the last remaining Ukrainian-held village, Gornal, in the Kursk region has been reclaimed by Russian forces after approximately eight months of conflict. Gerasimov further asserted that the casualty figures for Ukraine in the region are staggering, suggesting more than 76,000 Ukrainian military personnel have been killed or injured—a statistic that has yet to be independently verified.

Ukrainian authorities retorted that operations were still active in the Kursk area, with some military officials describing the Russian proclamations as mere "propaganda." Recent assessments from the Institute for the Study of War noted continued Russian military advancements near the border, indicative of the ongoing volatile situation. Ukrainian forces, having faced substantial pressure from approximately 70,000 Russian personnel and relentless drone strikes, have reportedly been in retreat.

During the video conference, Putin characterized Ukrainian attempts in the Kursk region as a definitive failure and hinted at possible Russian advances in other areas. He also acknowledged the contribution of North Korean troops in supporting Russian military operations, marking the first official recognition of their role in the conflict.

In a contrasting perspective, the Ukrainian military has reported it is still holding some positions in Kursk while also making incursions into the Belgorod region, which lies just south of Kursk. This border incursion was initiated by Ukraine last August to create a buffer zone against Russian aggression along the eastern front.

The geopolitical scenario surrounding the conflict became even more intricate following comments from U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested that Russia and Ukraine might be nearing an agreement to conclude hostilities after meetings with both leaders. Despite this, Trump expressed skepticism regarding Putin's willingness to cease aggression, especially in light of recent Russian strikes on Kyiv that resulted in numerous casualties.

Zelensky, the Ukrainian President, has openly opposed any territorial compromises during negotiations, particularly regarding Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. The ongoing territorial disputes will likely remain a critical issue in any discussions aimed at ending the conflict, which has seen Russia claiming control over significant portions of Ukraine since its invasion commenced in 2022.