Ukraine has made a bold move with a cross-border incursion into Russian territory, surprising both Moscow and its allies in the West. Initially thought to be a small raid, it turned out to be a major military operation involving potentially thousands of Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region of Russia.
According to experts, elite Ukrainian troops from the 22nd and 88th Mechanised Brigades and the 80th Air Assault Brigade are part of the operation. The incursion has expanded the pocket in Kursk, leading to the evacuation of thousands of people from border towns. Russian forces have been trying to prevent Ukrainian troops from advancing further into their territory.
President Zelensky has acknowledged the presence of Ukrainian troops in Russia but has not revealed the full details of the operation. Military analysts believe that this is a strategic move by Ukraine to show the world that they are not beaten and to destabilize the Russians. The success of this operation could give Ukraine an upper hand in negotiations with Moscow and challenge the notion that ordinary Russians can emerge unscathed from the war.
Russia has downplayed the attack on its soil, but has responded with missile and drone strikes in Ukraine to overwhelm their air defenses. While Ukraine’s air defenses have been effective in protecting its citizens, some attacks have been successful, resulting in civilian casualties.
The Kursk operation is a risky gamble with President Zelensky taking the lead. If the operation fails, Ukraine could suffer significant losses in terms of men and equipment, weakening its position on the front line. The outcome of this operation remains uncertain, but it has the potential to shift the dynamics of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
