Ukrainian forces mirror Russian tactics in the Kursk region offensive

- This is not a Russian occupation. We are using their own methods against them, and we have every right to do so, - say the soldiers participating in the Ukrainian operation in the Kursk region.

The soldiers, with whom the journalist from PAP spoke, are guarding the Junakiwka border crossing in the Sumy region, which leads to the part of the Russian Kursk region occupied by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

One of the officers described what they found in Sudzha, a small Russian town controlled by the Ukrainians.

- There's really nothing to see there. Road, store, looters. A Muscovite is a Muscovite; they steal from themselves. They stole all the alcohol from the store; even kids are stealing there. I was there on the second day after entering the Kursk region. Alcohol was taken first because it is considered a strategic commodity, currency. I see a 12-year-old boy pushing two carts, one with vodka, the other with frozen chickens. He grabbed all that, then threw it away; flies were everywhere - he recounts.

He adds that not too long ago, the body of a Russian soldier lay in front of the store in Sudzha. It's no longer there. According to the military officer, the body was taken "for exchange."

When asked about the defensive capabilities of the Russians, Ukrainian soldiers say they vary. - It depends on the place and the type of troops. Regular service soldiers who have no experience are cannon fodder. They surrender immediately. But there are also professionals. We must not underestimate the enemy, especially since the Russians have significant combat resources - emphasizes one of the soldiers.

And they assure that their entry into Russian territory is not an occupation of that country. - This is not an occupation; it is simply a mirrored response to their actions. They entered our territory 11 years ago. They occupied Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk. Why shouldn't we have the right to do the same? - asks the soldier.

Source: PAP