Ukraine Reports Progress and Strengthened Positions in Kursk Region Amid Ongoing East Conflict
Ukrainian army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi announced on Friday that Kyiv’s forces have made significant advances in the Kursk region, moving between one and three kilometers in certain areas since initiating their incursion into Russia 11 days ago. Since August 6, Ukrainian forces have claimed control over 82 settlements covering approximately 1,150 square kilometers (444 square miles), outpacing Russian advances within Ukraine this year.
During a video briefing with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Syrskyi reported active combat around Malaya Loknya, located about 11.5 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. He expressed optimism that ongoing battles could lead to capturing a substantial number of Russian prisoners, which Kyiv hopes will facilitate the exchange of Ukrainian fighters held by Russia.
Zelenskiy confirmed via social media that Ukraine is fortifying its positions and replenishing its “exchange fund” through the Kursk operation. Ukrainian officials have indicated that hundreds of Russian troops have been captured, aiming to accelerate the swap of Ukrainian captives.
Russia has labeled the incursion a “major provocation” and pledged to respond robustly, maintaining its stance over two and a half years into the conflict. The Russian Defence Ministry reported on Friday that its troops had repelled Ukrainian attacks near several villages, including Gordeevka and Russkoe Porechnoe.
Zelenskiy acknowledged the strategic benefits of the Kursk operation, highlighting its impact on Russian military logistics and reserve depletion. Kyiv’s Air Force commander, Mykola Oleshchuk, emphasized the role of aviation in targeting Russian supply routes and logistics, sharing a video of a strike on a bridge.
In the Kursk region, Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed a road bridge over the Seym River in Glushkovsky district, according to regional governor Alexei Smirnov.
Despite these developments, intense fighting continues in eastern Ukraine, where Russian troops are advancing towards the strategic hub of Pokrovsk. Analysts suggest that the Kursk operation may be intended to distract Russian forces from the eastern front, although there is no indication of a reduction in conflict there. Russian forces are currently about 10 kilometers from Pokrovsk and 6 kilometers from Myrnohrad.
French military expert Yohann Michel noted that while Kyiv aims to maximize the impact of the Kursk offensive, Russia is focused on its eastern objectives. He suggested that the outcome may hinge on which side can sustain its offensive longer.
Zelenskiy assured that Ukraine remains committed to the eastern front and plans to deliver additional weapons to bolster its defensive efforts.