The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has escalated significantly, with reports of Ukrainian forces launching attacks on Russian territory, particularly in the Kursk region. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims to have successfully repelled multiple Ukrainian assaults, including an attack by the 82nd Air Assault Brigade near the village of Ruska Porechnoy. Russian forces reportedly used a combination of ground troops, drone strikes, and artillery fire to thwart these advances.In a major development, Ukraine allegedly attempted a strike on the Crimean Bridge using 12 US-made ATACMS tactical rockets. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, all missiles were intercepted and destroyed by air defense systems. This incident led to a temporary closure of the bridge and significant traffic disruptions.The conflict has expanded beyond the immediate border regions, with Russia claiming to have conducted strikes against Ukrainian military reserves and infrastructure in the Sumy region. Russian military spokesperson Igor Konashenkov reported significant Ukrainian losses, including personnel, tanks, and various military equipment. However, these claims have not been independently verified.Meanwhile, conflicting reports have emerged about the extent of Ukrainian advances. Some sources suggest that Ukrainian forces have made significant gains, potentially capturing several villages and even a key city in the Kursk region. However, Russian authorities deny any substantial ground fighting within their territory.The situation in the Kursk region remains tense, with reports of over 20 villages under Ukrainian control and more than 121,000 people evacuated, according to acting governor Alexei Smirnov. The conflict’s escalation has raised concerns about a potential wider confrontation, with both sides accusing each other of aggression and receiving external support.
Key points
- Russian forces claim to have repelled multiple Ukrainian attacks in the Kursk region.
- Ukraine allegedly attempted to strike the Crimean Bridge with ATACMS missiles, which Russia says were intercepted.
- Over 121,000 people have been evacuated from the Kursk region due to the escalating conflict.
- Both sides report inflicting significant losses on the other, but claims are difficult to verify independently.
Contradictions👾There are conflicting reports about the extent of Ukrainian advances in Russian territory, with some sources claiming significant gains while Russian authorities deny substantial ground fighting.
👾The exact number of Ukrainian forces involved in the operations varies between reports, with estimates ranging from 11,600 to 14,560.