The Kremlin says Russian forces are in the final stage of operations to drive Ukrainian troops from Kursk, a Russian border region that has seen intensified fighting in recent weeks.
President Vladimir Putin made a surprise visit to Kursk on Wednesday—his first since Ukraine’s incursion into the region last August. Russian media reports say he ordered the military to “fully liberate” the area, underscoring Moscow’s determination to regain control.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military chief, Oleksandr Syrsky, has acknowledged that some Ukrainian units are withdrawing from Kursk, suggesting that Russian forces may be making significant gains. However, Kyiv has not confirmed the extent of the pullback.
The developments come as US officials are set to visit Russia to discuss a potential 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv is engaged in diplomatic efforts to “create all the conditions necessary to put pressure on Russia and achieve real peace.”
US President Donald Trump stated that he has received “positive messages” about the ceasefire proposal, though Russian President Putin has yet to publicly comment on the offer.
With both battlefield maneuvers and diplomatic negotiations unfolding simultaneously, the next few days could prove crucial in shaping the trajectory of the conflict.
Chioma Kalu
Follow us on:
