Ukraine’s recent push into Russia’s Kursk region marks a major shift in the ongoing conflict, challenging Moscow’s dominance along the 600-mile eastern front and altering the dynamics of the battle. This new development has put Russian forces on the defensive as they struggle to regain control over the area captured by Ukrainian troops in a widely commended counteroffensive.
A week after the operation, Kyiv faces critical questions regarding the sustainability of their hold on the newly acquired territory, while Russian President Vladimir Putin vows to reclaim and punish Ukraine for the incursion. Ukraine is contending with a shortage of manpower, despite having reduced the draft age earlier this year, which could impact their ability to maintain control over Kursk.
Vladimir Putin vows to counter Ukraine’s advances in Kursk as Ukraine’s control faces critical challenges
Angela Stent from the Brookings Institution notes that Ukraine’s success in holding the territory will hinge on their capacity to supply and train new troops. The film, “Unbreakable,” portrays the difficulties in maintaining the newfound gains despite ongoing resource constraints.
Ukrainian forces have reportedly seized around 386 square miles of Kursk and are making advances towards the strategic city of Sudzha. President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that 74 settlements in Kursk have been captured. Russian officials are responding by evacuating 180,000 people and deploying the Federal Security Service (FSB), national guard, and military to restore order.
Despite Putin’s vow to counter the Ukrainian offensive, experts highlight the challenges Russia faces in reclaiming the territory. Dara Massicot from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace points out that Russia’s focus on eastern battles and weakened borders may hinder their defensive efforts. Serhiy Grabskyi, a Ukrainian reserve colonel, criticizes Russia’s lack of a coherent defensive strategy.
Stent emphasizes that Russia’s preoccupation with the eastern front and lack of preparation for such incursions reflects poorly on their defense capabilities. Putin’s recent statements blaming the West for the attack only serve to further complicate the situation.
As Ukraine’s offensive continues, it remains uncertain how long they will maintain control of the territory. The operation could potentially draw Russian forces away from other fronts, providing Ukraine with a strategic advantage if managed effectively. However, the risk of depleting Ukrainian resources and extending the front line could pose additional challenges.
