Ukraine loses key ground as Russian forces advance in Kursk
Ukraine has lost over 40% of the territory it had controlled in the Kursk region in August. Russian counterattacks have forced Ukrainian forces to retreat, Reuters reports.
According to a Ukrainian military source, Russia has deployed about 59,000 soldiers in the Kursk region. "We controlled a maximum of about 1,400 square kilometres, now that territory is smaller," the source stated. Currently, Ukraine controls about 800 square kilometres. "We will maintain this territory as long as it is appropriate from a military standpoint," the informant added.
Kyiv, pressing on the Kursk region, aimed to halt Russian attacks in eastern and northeastern Ukraine. These actions were also intended to force Russia to withdraw forces from other areas and to strengthen Ukraine's position in future peace negotiations.
A source in the Ukrainian General Staff reported that about 11,000 North Korean soldiers arrived in the Kursk region, but most of them are still completing their training.
The Financial Times published maps showing changes in the operational area of Kursk at various stages, the In Factum portal informed.
The Kurakhiv direction is currently the most dangerous for Kyiv. Russian forces are advancing there at a rate of 200-300 metres per day, and in some areas, they have managed to break through with the help of armoured vehicles supported by anti-drone defences.
Russia currently has about 575,000 soldiers fighting in Ukraine and plans to increase this number to 690,000.
