In a surprise offensive, Ukraine has advanced into the Kursk region of Russia, gaining control over 500 square kilometers of Russian territory. The Ukrainian military is considering reinforcements, defensive positions, or withdrawal.
Russian reinforcements from southern Ukraine were destroyed. Moscow has avoided declaring martial law, while the Kremlin suppresses criticism and spreads propaganda to showcase its successes.
President Putin has ordered Russian forces to drive Ukrainians out of the Kursk region, ruling out talks due to attacks on civilians and nuclear plants. Both sides blame each other for a fire at the Zaporizhzhya plant.
Russia has taken 420 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory since June 14, while Ukraine has gained a comparable amount of territory in the Kursk region. The conflict has forced thousands of residents to be evacuated, and both sides are considering a halt to the war, though they are far apart on ceasefire terms.
Ukraine's attack aims to improve its negotiating position and show its Western backers that it can still mount major military operations. Russia, on the other hand, wants to gain a stronger bargaining position on the battlefield and push further into Ukraine.
The situation remains tense and fluid, with Russia mobilizing reserves and stabilizing the front in the Kursk region.
