KYIV: Ukraine on Thursday claimed fresh advances in its largest cross-border offensive into Russia, where it said it had seized over a thousand square kilometres, the biggest attack by a foreign army on Russian soil since World War II.
Russia said it had recaptured a first village from Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region and announced it was sending “additional forces” to the neighbouring Belgorod region.
Ukrainian forces, who launched their offensive on August 6, claimed control over 1,150 square kilometers of territory and 82 settlements, including the town of Sudzha, which is situated just eight kilometers from the Russian border.
Top Ukrainian military commander Oleksandr Syrsky confirmed the seizure of these areas and reported that an administrative office has been established in the newly controlled territories to manage local needs and maintain order.
President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the Ukrainian forces’ success in liberating Sudzha from Russian control and commended the troops for their resilience. The offensive, which marks the largest cross-border attack on Russian soil, has been a significant shift for Ukrainian forces, who have faced prolonged setbacks over the past two years of conflict.
Russian authorities announced the recapture of the village of Krupets in the Kursk region. The Russian Defense Ministry stated that the village had been re-secured following the “complete destruction of the enemy” in the area. The ministry also revealed plans to send additional troops to the Belgorod region.
Belgorod region governor Vyacheslav Gladkov declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, citing the “extremely difficult” situation caused by Ukrainian shelling and drone attacks. Reports indicate that over 120,000 residents from the region have been displaced. The Russian Red Cross has been distributing food and clothing to evacuees, who are now seeking assistance in various shelters.
The intensity of the conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties, with at least 12 reported dead and 121 wounded in recent days, according to Russian authorities. The fighting has also triggered evacuations and disruptions across the border areas.
In the eastern Donbas region, where Russia has focused its military efforts, Ukrainian President Zelensky emphasized the continued defensive efforts against Russian advances. Ukrainian forces have been under pressure from Russian attacks in the Donetsk region, with recent reports indicating that Russian troops have captured the village of Ivanivka, located just 15 kilometers from the Ukrainian-controlled transport hub of Pokrovsk.
