Largest Cross-Border Ukrainian Raid Jolts Russia

A large-scale Ukrainian incursion into Russia's Kursk region exposed Russian vulnerabilities and heightened tensions. This marks a significant cross-border raid by Kyiv's forces, boosting Ukrainian morale and dealing a blow to the Kremlin. Thousands of civilians fled, and Russian military response has been notably sluggish and ineffective.

A massive Ukrainian incursion into Russia's Kursk region has exposed vulnerabilities in Russian defenses and struck a significant blow to the Kremlin. This operation, the largest of its kind in the nearly 2½-year conflict, has prompted thousands of civilians to flee, while the Russian military struggles to respond effectively.

For Ukraine, the cross-border raid serves as a much-needed morale booster amidst relentless Russian attacks on a broad front. Ukrainian forces advanced rapidly, overrunning checkpoints and lightly defended positions, with some units pushing up to 35 kilometres deep into Russian territory.

Russian military bloggers and analysts highlight the raid's impact, noting Kyiv's ability to leverage small armored groups and drones for strategic advantage. However, challenges remain as Ukrainian troops attempt to secure their positions, with supply lines vulnerable to Russian counterattacks.

(With inputs from agencies.)