Ukraine’s military has made significant advances into Russia’s Kursk region, taking control of 28 towns and villages and forcing a large-scale evacuation. The incursion, which has penetrated 12 kilometers into Russian territory and established control over a 40-kilometer-wide area, has displaced approximately 180,000 people, with over 120,000 already evacuated and 60,000 more awaiting assistance, according to the region’s acting governor, Alexey Smirnov.
During a televised meeting with top security officials, Russian President Vladimir Putin was briefed on the situation, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing humanitarian aid for those affected. He instructed the governor to concentrate on providing help to the displaced population, leaving the military to handle the tactical situation on the ground. Putin also acknowledged the potential for the conflict to escalate, noting that the situation in neighboring regions, such as Bryansk, could change rapidly.
The Ukrainian advance marks the most significant foreign military incursion into Russia since World War II, challenging the Russian defense forces who have been reinforced to counter the attack. Putin expressed concern that Ukraine’s actions are aimed at destabilizing Russia and improving its bargaining position in future negotiations, as the conflict between the two nations continues into its third year.