Ukraine's HIMARS Strike on Kursk Region Highlights Intensifying Conflict

Ukraine used Western rockets, likely U.S.-made HIMARS, to destroy a bridge over the Seym River in Russia's Kursk region, killing volunteers. Russia accuses the West of supporting Ukraine’s ground offensive, while the U.S. views it as a justified protective move. Kyiv claims territorial gains in the region.

Ukraine reportedly employed Western rockets, likely American-made HIMARS, to demolish a bridge over the Seym River in Russia's Kursk region, resulting in the deaths of volunteers assisting with civilian evacuations, according to Russia's foreign ministry.

Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova announced on Friday via Telegram, 'For the first time, the Kursk region was hit by Western-made rocket launchers, probably American HIMARS.' She stated the bridge in Glushkovo district was completely destroyed by the attack, resulting in volunteer fatalities.

Ukrainian forces are reportedly advancing 1 to 3 kilometers in some areas of the Kursk region, according to Ukrainian army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Kyiv asserts control over 82 settlements across 1,150 square kilometers since August 6. Russia blames Western nations for supporting Ukraine's incursion, while the U.S. sees the action as a protective measure against Russia's aggression.

(With inputs from agencies.)