Russia strikes back at Ukrainian forces in Kursk region

Russia launched a counterattack in the Kursk region, using missiles, drones, and Sukhoi Su-34 bombers to halt Ukraine's advance. The Chechen Akhmat forces successfully repelled the attacks.

Meanwhile, Gazprom continued gas pumping. Russian President Putin promised retaliation from Novo-Ogaryovo.

Ukrainian President Zelenskiy cited security concerns, but Western backers were unaware of the offensive. Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service warned of a risk of escalation.

In Belgorod, 11,000 people were evacuated, and a total of 121,000 have left or been evacuated from Kursk, with 59,000 more to be evacuated. Russia currently controls less than 20% of Ukraine, and Ukraine's counteroffensive in 2023 failed to regain territory, although they did recapture some in 2022. Russia is advancing deeper into Ukraine, potentially leaving other fronts vulnerable as forces are dedicated to Kursk.