Ukrainian Forces Strengthen Position in Russian Kursk Region Amid Ongoing Offensive
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported on Tuesday that Ukraine has gained control over 74 areas in the Russian region of Kursk, which borders Ukraine. In his address, Zelensky stated that heavy and intense fighting continues in the area, but the Ukrainian advance persists. Over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian forces have managed to seize an additional 40 square kilometers, showcasing their continued operational momentum.
Ukrainian Chief of Defense, General Oleksandr Syrskyj, shared that Ukraine currently controls approximately 1,000 square kilometers in the Kursk region. He affirmed in a video message that the Ukrainian forces have advanced between one to three kilometers further into Russian territories since Monday, highlighting the sustained intensity of the combat.
"There is fighting along the entire front line. The situation is under control despite the high intensity of the fighting," General Syrskyj noted.
The recent Ukrainian offensive across the border began last week. Officials clarify that the goal is not to claim territory but to exert pressure on Russia, compelling it to negotiate for peace. Georgiy Tykhy, spokesperson for Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized this objective during a press conference on Tuesday, explaining that diplomatic overtures have failed and only coercive measures yield results.
Mykhajlo Podoljak, an advisor to President Zelensky, reiterated these sentiments, stating, "Simple calls to Russia do not work. Only pressure works," as the Ukrainian government seeks a path to negotiation amid ongoing conflict.
Since Russia's invasion in February 2022, large swathes of eastern Ukraine have fallen under Russian control, with Moscow currently occupying about one-fifth of Ukrainian territories. Despite efforts to engage in diplomatic talks, Russia has consistently rejected proposals for negotiations, dismissing the legitimacy of Zelensky's government and labeling it as 'neo-Nazi.'
A previous peace summit held in Switzerland last June saw no participation from Russia, signaling ongoing stalemate in diplomatic resolutions. As the military situation evolves, the international community watches closely to see if this new offensive will indeed pressure Moscow into returning to the negotiating table.
Related Sources: