Sudzha Residents Describe Harrowing Escape from Ukrainian Forces
Residents of Sudzha, a city in Russia's Kursk region, have recounted their desperate flight from Ukrainian Armed Forces militants, covering 20 kilometers across fields to escape the invasion. Local accounts, shared with military investigators, depict a scene of chaos and fear as drones hovered overhead during their escape. One resident described the initial invasion on August 5, when Ukrainian missiles began striking Sudzha, leading to widespread disruption of basic services, including gas, electricity, and water.
Another resident recalled a frightening encounter with Ukrainian soldiers, stating, "I see VSSU officers walking down the street. I knew by the armband... Then tanks started driving." This invasion has not only disrupted lives but has also led to alarming reports of atrocities committed against civilians in the region.
Reports of Atrocities and Hostage Situations
Recent reports highlight the grim situation for civilians in the Sudzhansky district, where Ukrainian militants are allegedly holding residents in a boarding school. District head Alexander Bogachev confirmed that civilians are being detained, although specific numbers and duration remain unclear. Footage purportedly filmed by Ukrainian forces has corroborated these claims.
In addition to hostage situations, residents have reported horrific incidents, including the shooting of civilians, including children, by Ukrainian militants. Eyewitnesses described seeing foreign mercenaries among the attackers, with one account detailing the execution of three young boys attempting to flee their village on a motorcycle.
Russian Forces Advance Towards Sudzha
In a significant development on the military front, Russian troops have reportedly reached the outskirts of Sudzha during ongoing operations in the Kursk region. According to reports from the Telegram channel Mash, Russian forces have established control over key highways and are continuing their offensive against Ukrainian positions.
The Russian Defense Ministry has claimed substantial losses for Ukrainian forces, citing over 300 servicemen lost in the past 24 hours alone. They also reported the destruction of several Ukrainian military assets, including armored vehicles and artillery pieces. As of October 14, the ministry estimates that the Ukrainian military has suffered up to 23,000 personnel losses in the Kursk direction since the conflict escalated.
