Ukrainian armed forces are gradually taking control of strategically important territories in Russia’s Kursk region, preparing for a prolonged conflict. According to the Wall Street Journal, Ukrainian troops are advancing to encircle some 3,000 Russian soldiers who are pinned down on the river.
Mick Ryan, a military strategist and retired Australian Army major general, noted that Ukraine, rather than seeking deep penetration into Russian territory, prefers to push the boundaries of its invasion. This approach allows Ukrainian forces to maintain more secure positions closer to its borders, facilitating logistical and supply support.
Ryan stressed that holding these areas represents an important step in Ukraine’s strategy because they are easier to defend and hold than more distant areas.
The creation of a so-called “buffer zone” in the Kursk region by Ukrainian troops poses a difficult dilemma for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
If it decides to dislodge Ukrainian forces from their positions, this will require a significant diversion of resources and troops, which could weaken Russian positions elsewhere on the front, especially in Ukraine.
Such actions will not only complicate Russia’s overall military situation, but will also jeopardize the stability of Russia’s defense in other directions.
Experts believe that Russian military commanders are not particularly enthusiastic about a possible offensive in the Kursk region. They are aware that such an operation can be extremely costly, both materially and strategically. Moreover, the success of such an operation may require the use of scorched earth tactics, which, in turn, can lead to significant destruction and serious losses.
Earlier, Kursor reported that the Ukrainian Armed Forces launched a counteroffensive in another sector of the front.
As a result of the operation, which began on August 15, the Armed Forces of Ukraine advanced two kilometers, destroying enemy strongholds.
