Ukraine Advances in Kursk Region Amid Intense Frontline Battles

Ukraine's army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that Kyiv's forces advanced significantly in Russia's Kursk region. Ukraine seized control of 82 settlements. Intense battles continued in Toretsk and Pokrovsk, with hundreds of Russian troops captured during the incursion, boosting hopes for a swap of Ukrainian fighters held in Russia.

Ukraine's army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi on Friday announced significant advancements by Kyiv's forces in Russia's Kursk region, with troops progressing between one and three kilometers in certain areas.

Following a major cross-border offensive initiated on August 6, Ukraine has reclaimed 82 settlements across 1,150 square kilometers. Briefing President Volodymyr Zelenskiy via video link, Syrskyi detailed ongoing combat near Malaya Loknya, a mere 11.5 kilometers from the Ukrainian border.

'The situation is largely under control and proceeding according to plan,' Syrskyi stated in a video shared by Zelenskiy on Telegram. He expressed optimism that the fighting near Malaya Loknya would result in capturing 'many prisoners.'

Ukrainian officials confirmed that hundreds of Russian troops had been taken captive, raising hopes for an expedited swap of Ukrainian soldiers held in Russian detention. 'The Kursk region operation fortifies our positions and replenishes our 'exchange fund,'' conveyed Zelenskiy on X.

Syrskyi also noted that heavy fighting is ongoing along Ukraine's eastern frontline, particularly around the areas of Toretsk and the pivotal hub of Pokrovsk.

(With inputs from agencies.)