Russia’s foreign ministry recently accused Ukraine of using Western-made rockets, specifically pointing to U.S.-made HIMARS, to destroy a bridge over the Seym river in the Kursk region. This attack resulted in the deaths of volunteers who were assisting in the evacuation of civilians. Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian foreign ministry, highlighted this incident as the first instance of Western-made rocket launchers being used in the Kursk region.
Ukrainian army chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that Kyiv’s forces were making significant advances in the Kursk region, managing to move between 1 and 3 kilometres in certain areas. This offensive began 11 days prior and has resulted in the alleged control of 82 settlements over an area spanning 1,150 square kilometres since August 6th. However, there has been no independent verification of the battlefield accounts provided by either side.
The conflict has seen the United States supporting Ukraine’s offensive, citing the need to prevent Russian President Vladimir Putin from achieving victory in the war initiated in February 2022. On the other hand, Russia has condemned the West’s backing of Ukraine and labeled Kyiv’s actions as a “terrorist invasion.” The Russian Defence Ministry announced that its troops successfully repelled Ukrainian attacks in various areas, including near Gordeevka and Russkoe Porechnoe.
Analysts have suggested that one of the primary aims of Ukraine’s Kursk operation was to divert Russian forces from the east, where they have been advancing towards the key hub of Pokrovsk. Despite the heavy fighting in the Kursk region, there has been no indication of a slowdown in the east. Russian forces remain dangerously close to the outskirts of Pokrovsk, with only a few kilometers separating them. French military expert Yohann Michel noted that the first party to relent in their offensive efforts could be forced to halt their operations.
Kyiv Air Force commander Mykola Oleshchuk highlighted the involvement of aviation in targeting enemy supply routes and logistics centers. He shared a video showing a strike on a bridge over the Seym River in the Glushkovsky district, illustrating the extent of the damage inflicted on infrastructure. Governor Alexei Smirnov confirmed the destruction of a crucial road bridge in the same area, indicating the severity of the conflict.
As the conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to escalate, both sides are strategizing to gain the upper hand. While Ukraine aims to maximize the impact of its offensive in Kursk, Russia is focused on securing its position in the east. The unresolved situation in Pokrovsk underscores the intensity of the conflict and the stakes involved for both parties. President Zelenskyy’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s position by promising additional weapons deliveries highlights the persistent determination to defend against Russian aggression.
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