Ukraine is reportedly ramping up its military operations in Russia’s Kursk region, although there has been no official confirmation from the Ukrainians. The Russian Defense Ministry has stated that Ukrainian troops attempted a counterattack in Kursk Oblast but were repelled by Russian military forces.
This situation follows an offensive launched by Ukraine in the Kursk region in August 2024, a move that reportedly startled both Russia’s President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine’s Western allies.
Since the initial operation, Ukraine has been able to maintain some positions in the region. However, reports indicate that Russia has regained control over approximately half of the territory initially captured by Kiev’s forces.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has recently commented on the significance of operations in Kursk Oblast, suggesting their potential impact on future talks aimed at ending the conflict with Russia.
Earlier this week, Zelensky indicated for the first time that he would be willing to speak face-to-face with President Putin to discuss ending the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, but still referred to Putin as an “enemy.” However, he is still adamant that his country should join the NATO military alliance, going as far as repeatedly threatening to acquire nuclear weapons if Ukraine is not allowed to become a member.