Ukraine Maintains Control in Kursk Amid Ongoing Military Tensions

KYIV, Ukraine – Around 10,000 Russian soldiers are engaged in combat in the Kursk region of Russia, with Ukraine maintaining control over about 90 square kilometers (35 square miles), Ukraine’s top military commander, Oleksandr Syrskyi, reported this week.

Syrskyi stated, “We control about 90 square kilometers of territory in the Hlushkov district of the Kursk region of the Russian Federation. These are our preemptive actions in response to a possible enemy attack.” His remarks were made public on Sunday by his office.

The Ukrainian military noted that their activities in this area have hindered Russia’s ability to send forces to the eastern region of Donetsk, where intense fighting has been ongoing since the full-scale invasion began over three years ago. Syrskyi’s troops are working to repel Russian advances along a frontline that stretches approximately 1,200 kilometers.

Despite Russian gains reported in May and June, Ukraine asserts that these have come at a high cost of casualties for Russia during small scale assault operations. The Ukrainian military’s resilience has managed to thwart some Russian efforts toward its borders, but pressures remain in the eastern regions.

Furthermore, Russia has continued drone and missile assaults on cities farther from the frontline. Ukraine’s military claims to intercept around 82% of Shahed-type drones launched by Russia but requires additional surface-to-air missile systems to protect vital infrastructure.

The Ukrainian military is also enhancing its air defense strategies, utilizing light aircraft to counter drone assaults with varying levels of success. Additionally, Ukraine has targeted Russian economic and military assets effectively, inflicting over $1.3 billion in direct losses on the Russian oil refining industry from January to May.

Earlier this month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky underscored the significance of operations in Kursk to prevent Russian troop movements toward eastern Ukraine. The offensive into the Kursk region was launched in August 2024, resulting in the initial capture of over 1,000 square kilometers but later facing Russian counteroffensive actions that regained most of the territory.

Despite fluctuations in territorial control and ongoing combat operations, Syrskyi remains committed to fortifying defensive positions while actively advancing on specific fronts. The current situation reflects the volatile and evolving nature of the conflict, with both sides preparing for possible future engagements.