Ukraine Faces Setback as Russian Forces Regain Control of Kursk Region

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukraine is losing control in the Kursk region as Russian forces, supported by North Korean troops, reclaim territory that was once a significant advance during the ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian army had successfully captured substantial land during an incursion last August, aiming to create leverage for future peace negotiations. However, after months of intensified assaults, only 30% of that territory remains under Ukrainian control.

On March 12, 2025, Ukraine’s military was striving to establish defensive positions near the border in response to the rapid advance of Russian troops into Sudzha, the largest occupied settlement in Kursk. The pressure has intensified since Russia aimed to regain its territory, significantly impacting Ukraine’s bargaining position in any potential negotiations.

President Vladimir Putin announced his provisional agreement with a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire during a recent visit to military headquarters in the Kursk region. However, he emphasized the need for details to be ironed out, suggesting that further advances into Ukraine might occur before any pause in hostilities.

Current combat operations in the southern outskirts of Sudzha reflect the deteriorating situation for Ukrainian forces. A Ukrainian soldier, under the condition of anonymity, expressed concerns that their command’s inaction led to unnecessary casualties. “We were left to fend for ourselves under constant fire; it’s disheartening,” he said. The soldier emphasized their dwindling logistical support as Russian airpower compounded their challenges.

According to the Institute for the Study of War, Russian forces have regained approximately 70% of the territory captured by Ukraine early in the conflict. As Ukraine retreats, it faces a logistical nightmare, with soldiers needing to traverse difficult terrain to reach safety while avoiding increasingly aggressive Russian forces.

An anonymous Ukrainian military commander stated, “The Russians recognized a tactical opportunity and capitalized on it.” Discussions among military leaders reveal conflicting assessments regarding the Kursk operation, with some viewing the incursion as a necessary diversion, while others deem it as having drained vital resources and manpower that could have bolstered defenses elsewhere.

The loss of Sudzha has not only concerned soldiers but has raised alarms within Ukraine’s political ranks. Reflecting on the implications of their retreat, a high-ranking military figure noted, “We will be negotiating from a weaker position without this territorial advantage.” In contrast, the Russian government remains steadfast, asserting that their objective is to consolidate control of the border region before any discussions on a ceasefire begin.

As the retreat progresses, Ukrainian troops report severe ammunition shortages and dwindling manpower, with accounts suggesting they are frequently outnumbered. “We were roughly facing five to one in some clashes; the North Koreans are relentless,” reported a senior Ukrainian officer, indicating how external forces on the Russian side intensified the fight. Ukrainian soldiers are now tasked with rapidly reinforcing defense lines along the Sumy border to prevent further incursions.

As the situation in Kursk deteriorates, both military and civilian assessments underscore the complexity of the operation. While some experts argue that the incursion successfully drew Russian forces away from critical positions, others, such as Michael Kofman of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, criticize the overall objectives achieved.

The ongoing development in Kursk signals a decisive moment in the conflict, as each side attempts to leverage their military strength for a favorable settlement. Ukrainian forces are left to ponder the costs versus benefits of their territorial occupation in what has become a precarious situation.