Intense Border Battles Heat Up: Russia Fights Major Incursion

Russia is engaged in intense battles against Ukrainian forces that have breached its southern border near a key natural gas hub, resulting in significant civilian casualties and heightened security measures. The conflict has intensified around the town of Sudzha, with both sides aiming to secure strategic advantages as the war continues.

Russia reported intense combat on Wednesday as Ukrainian forces penetrated its southern border near a major natural gas hub, marking one of the most significant incursions into Russian territory since the war's onset. Kursk Region's acting governor, Alexey Smirnov, declared a state of emergency, restricting access to designated areas, while regional officials indicated civilian injuries and fatalities.

The Russian health ministry confirmed that 31 civilians, including six children, were wounded, and five people had died. Russia's National Guard increased security around the nearby Kursk nuclear power station. Despite Ukraine's 2023 counteroffensive failing to secure major gains, Russia has claimed 420 square km of Ukrainian land since mid-June.

Ukraine counterattacked on Tuesday, intensifying battles into Wednesday near Sudzha, 530 km southwest of Moscow, as per the Russian defense ministry. President Vladimir Putin labeled the assault a significant provocation. General Valery Gerasimov noted that Russian forces managed to halt nearly 1,000 Ukrainian soldiers' advance, promising to push them back. The U.S. reiterated that Ukraine's actions did not breach its weapon use policy, while the conflict around key energy infrastructure remains a critical concern.

(With inputs from agencies.)