Ukraine loses grip in Kursk as Russian forces advance
Ukraine lost over 40% of its territory in the Kursk region in August. Russian counterattacks forced the Ukrainian forces to retreat, Reuters reports.
3:27 PM EST, November 23, 2024
According to a Ukrainian military source, Russia has deployed approximately 59,000 soldiers in the Kursk region. "We controlled a maximum of about 540 square miles, and now that territory is smaller," the source stated. Currently, Ukraine controls about 310 square miles. "We will maintain this territory as long as it is appropriate from a military standpoint," the informant added.
Kyiv, pressing on the Kursk region, aimed to halt Russian attacks in eastern and northeastern Ukraine. These actions were also intended to compel Russia to withdraw forces from other areas and to strengthen Ukraine's position in future peace negotiations.
A source in the Ukrainian General Staff reported that about 11,000 North Korean soldiers arrived in the Kursk region, though most of them are still completing their training.
The Financial Times published maps showing changes in the operational area of Kursk at various stages, In Factum portal informed.
The Kurakhiv direction is currently the most dangerous for Kyiv. Russian forces are advancing there at a rate of 220-330 yards per day, and in some areas, they have managed to break through with the help of armored vehicles supported by anti-drone defenses.
Russia currently has about 575,000 soldiers fighting in Ukraine and plans to increase this number to 690,000.
