As Ukraine advances in Kursk, President Vladimir Putin faces mounting pressure as he seeks to shift blame for the ongoing conflict. The Kremlin's response to the unexpected Ukrainian offensive has raised questions about military strategy and accountability within the Russian government.
The second week of the Ukrainian Kursk offensive has commenced, with reports indicating that Russia has evacuated approximately 121,000 residents from the border region. Analysts suggest that this offensive poses a significant challenge to Putin, who is attempting to deflect responsibility for the situation.
In a recent televised meeting, Putin criticized top officials, including the acting governor of Kursk, for their handling of the crisis. He emphasized that the responsibility for the defense against Ukraine's advances lies squarely with the Russian Defense Ministry, warning other officials to refrain from commenting on the situation.
As tensions escalate, both sides brace for potential escalations. Putin has vowed that Ukraine will receive a 'worthy response' for its actions, while Ukrainian officials anticipate a severe Russian counterattack. The ongoing conflict has seen Ukrainian forces reportedly capturing 1,000 square kilometers of territory, further complicating the already tense situation.
