On September 10, Russian troops launched the first large-scale counterattack against Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region. Analysts believe that one of the goals of the Russian offensive may be an attempt to isolate the Ukrainian bulge formed in the Kursk region. However, the Ukrainian army soon took retaliatory measures, launching its own counterattacks to contain the enemy’s advance.
According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Russian troops attacked along the western edge of Ukrainian positions in the Kursk region and, according to unverified reports, captured several settlements northeast and south of Korenevo. However, experts stress that the exact scale and long-term prospects of these actions are still unclear and it is too early to draw firm conclusions. ISW continues to monitor the situation as it develops, observing changes on the front line.
However, analysts have identified several key areas of Russian attacks. Thus, according to reports on social media, Russian forces carried out counteroffensive operations in the area of the village of Zhuravli, where they managed to recapture positions east of the village. In addition, airborne units advanced to the north and northeast of the village of Snagost. Despite claims by Russian sources that these areas have been completely captured, ISW has not found visual confirmation of these claims.
At the same time, Ukrainian forces began counterattacks in the western part of the Kursk salient. In particular, the 46th separate airmobile brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that its units were attacking the flanks of Russian troops advancing in the team’s area. Ukrainian troops continue to resist, attacking enemy positions, although it is not clear how many forces have been allocated for these operations.
One of the areas of Ukrainian counterattacks was the village of Kulbaki, located southwest of Snagosta and a few kilometers from the international border. ISW suggests that Ukrainian forces have recently advanced into the area, which could be an important step in the development of the conflict.
Analysts note that the Russian forces taking part in the counterattacks operate in small units, up to company size, and may include elements of more experienced units. However, the question remains whether such units will be able to fully withstand Ukrainian counterattacks, especially given that many of them have already suffered significant losses during the conflict.
Despite the counteroffensive, Russian troops may continue to try to cut off the Ukrainian salient and advance towards the international border, which will complicate the logistical routes of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and their fire support capabilities. In the coming days, we can expect additional Russian forces to be sent to intensify the counterattacks.
It is unclear whether Russian authorities believe that the current group in the Kursk region, composed mainly of conscripts and irregulars, is capable of achieving strategic goals. More combat-ready units may be transferred from other regions, but the timing of such moves is still unknown.
ISW warns that it is too early to assess the long-term impact of two days of counterattacks as Ukraine’s cross-border operations continue. The situation remains dynamic and the course of events may change in the near future.
Ukrainian soldiers spotted in the village of Kubalki, Kursk, west of Snagost
Clashes were reported last night in Troitskoye and Elizavetovka, across the border, as Russian troops attacked from Korenevo towards Snagost. pic.twitter.com/viF6OWpu5Q
— PS01 △ (@PStyle0ne1) September 11, 2024
Earlier, Kursor wrote that the Armed Forces of Ukraine named targets in the Russian Federation that Ukraine will attack with Western weapons.
