Putin Plans Counteroffensive to Reclaim Kursk Region Amid Ukrainian Advances

Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to launch a counteroffensive in the Kursk region to reclaim territory overtaken by Ukrainian forces, according to CIA Deputy Director David Cohen. The Ukrainian incursion has captured around 300 square miles, and while Ukraine has no plans to annex the area, defensive lines are being constructed.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is poised to launch a counteroffensive in the Kursk region to reclaim territory overrun by Ukrainian forces, Deputy CIA Director David Cohen revealed on Wednesday. Cohen discussed the situation at a national security industry conference, noting that the conflict's broader implications remain uncertain.

On August 6, Ukrainian forces initiated a surprise offensive through Russia's western border into the Kursk region. While Kyiv has no intentions of annexing the area, defensive lines indicate plans to hold the territory for an extended period. Cohen emphasized the likelihood of a challenging fight for Russian forces.

Ukraine reports capturing 100 settlements in the Kursk region, while Russian troops continue advancing in Donetsk. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated the war would end in dialogue but stressed the need for Ukraine to be in a strong negotiating position. Meanwhile, Putin insists on a deal acknowledging current territorial realities, which include substantial control over four Ukrainian regions and Crimea.

(With inputs from agencies.)