Putin confirms Ukraine holds 28 settlements

Russian President Vladimir Putin has characterized Ukraine's recent incursion into Russia's Kursk region as an effort to undermine Moscow’s military operations in eastern Ukraine. This attack has prompted the evacuation of around 100,000 people.

As reported by Sky News, the Russian military is still reacting to the surprise assault, which has resulted in significant Ukrainian territorial gains. Putin suggested that the offensive reflects Kyiv's strategy to improve its position in potential future peace negotiations.

The Ukrainian military operation remains shrouded in secrecy, leaving unclear whether Ukrainian forces intend to secure territory or conduct hit-and-run attacks. Colonel General Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that Ukraine now controls approximately 1,000 square kilometers (386 square miles) in the Kursk region. Acting Kursk Governor Alexei Smirnov stated that Ukrainian troops have advanced 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) into Russian territory, capturing 28 settlements.

Smirnov also reported civilian casualties, with 12 killed and 121 wounded, including 10 children. About 121,000 individuals have been displaced by the fighting.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy defended the offensive, citing Russia's extensive cross-border strikes on Ukraine’s Sumy region over the summer as justification for Kyiv's actions.

Military expert Matthew Savill from the Royal United Services Institute noted that Russia faces significant embarrassment from the invasion, as the loss of territory and civilian evacuations undermine its defense capabilities. He warned that maintaining a strong Ukrainian presence in Russia and defending against counterattacks could be challenging due to Ukraine’s limited resources.

[Information sourced from Sky News]