Ukraine continued its aggressive military actions against the Russian border region of Kursk on Wednesday, using missiles and drones. This escalation comes as Kyiv reported new territorial gains in its ongoing incursion, a situation US President Joe Biden has described as a “real dilemma” for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Missiles and Air Raid Alerts
Four Ukrainian-launched missiles were intercepted and destroyed over the Kursk region. Throughout the night, the area experienced intermittent air raid alerts, according to the regional acting governor. Kyiv announced on Tuesday that it had captured 74 settlements within Kursk. This advance follows an offensive by Ukrainian troops across the Russian border. In contrast, Russia claims that Ukrainian forces have been stopped, with attacks repelled at villages approximately 16 to 17 miles from the border.
Putin’s Perspective and Strategic Implications
Russian President Vladimir Putin has suggested that Ukraine‘s incursion is intended to enhance its negotiating stance ahead of potential discussions and to impede Russia’s progress on the frontline. This development has altered the war dynamics initiated by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, marking the first significant Ukrainian gains after months of steady territorial losses to Moscow.
Biden’s Comments and US Involvement
In his first substantive remarks on the situation, President Biden noted that Washington maintains ongoing communication with Kyiv regarding the operation. However, the White House clarified that it is not involved in the planning or preparation of the Ukrainian offensive. Biden highlighted that the situation poses a significant challenge for Putin.
Russian Military Response
A Russian military blogger known as “Rybar,” who is associated with the defense ministry, reported on Telegram that Ukrainian forces are launching attacks on multiple fronts simultaneously. Russian troops are reportedly engaging Ukrainian soldiers while targeting their supply lines, and reinforcements are being deployed.
Kursk’s Defense Efforts
Kursk’s acting governor, Alexei Smirnov, conveyed on Telegram that Russian soldiers are steadfastly defending their positions, working “shoulder to shoulder” to achieve victory.
(With Reuters Inputs)