Ukraine's $1B Blow: Kursk Region Faces Severe Agricultural Devastation

Ukraine's incursion into Russia's Kursk region has resulted in nearly $1 billion in economic damage, affecting crops and livestock, and leading to the evacuation of 150,000 people. The attack, involving thousands of troops and Western-made weapons, has significantly impacted the region's agriculture and economy.

(Adds more damage data from the governor) MOSCOW, Sept 11 (Reuters) -

Economic devastation from Ukraine's attack on Russia's agricultural Kursk region is estimated at nearly $1 billion, according to regional governor Alexei Smirnov. Since the Aug. 6 incursion, over 150,000 people have been evacuated. This marks the most significant foreign attack on Russia since World War II, with Ukraine deploying thousands of troops, drones, and heavy Western-made weaponry.

Kursk, which supplies 4% of Russia's grain harvest, has been hit hard. Governor Smirnov indicated that federal emergency and counter-terrorist measures implemented in the region have disrupted the local economy. Russian forces have initiated a counter-offensive against Ukrainian troops, as acknowledged by war bloggers and a senior Russian commander.

Smirnov provided a preliminary damage estimate of 85 billion roubles ($934.07 million). Grain harvesting on 160,000 hectares is incomplete, and oilseed and sugar beet crops are significantly impacted. The region also reported livestock losses exceeding 350,000 pigs and cattle.

(With inputs from agencies.)