Ukraine’s Strategic Advance: Kursk Incursion Aims to Weaken Russian Forces

Ukraine has claimed significant advancements in Russia's Kursk region, seizing over 80 settlements in a 1,150 square km area. President Zelenskiy states the operation aims to carve out a buffer zone and weaken Moscow's military. Despite successes, Ukrainian forces face challenges near the strategic city of Pokrovsk.

Ukraine, on Monday, announced successful progress in its two-week-old incursion into Russia's Kursk region. This follows Moscow's confirmation that Ukrainian forces had damaged a third bridge, adding to the strikes on two others critical for troops' supplies.

Kyiv claims it has seized over 80 settlements in a 1,150-square-kilometer area in Kursk since a sudden strike on Aug. 6, marking Russia's largest invasion since World War Two. President Zelenskiy emphasized that the assault on Kursk, bordering eastern Ukraine, aims to create a buffer zone and degrade Moscow's war capabilities.

While Ukraine's air force chief reported the destruction of two bridges to hamper enemy logistics, Russia confirmed a third bridge was struck. Analysts noted these bridges as vital for Russian supply lines. Zelenskiy highlighted the efforts to weaken Russia's military potential, noting the capture of Russian soldiers. Troops are facing defensive challenges near Pokrovsk, a crucial transport hub in the eastern region.

(With inputs from agencies.)