Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that military rule may be imposed in the Russian province of Kursk as Ukrainian forces continue their unprecedented ground offensive. This escalation marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict, with Ukrainian troops reportedly advancing two kilometers deeper into Kursk and capturing additional Russian soldiers. As battles rage, both sides are experiencing heavy losses, and the humanitarian situation remains dire, prompting discussions among Ukrainian officials about military departments in the border province.
The Russian Ministry of Defense acknowledged that Ukrainian forces have penetrated 30 kilometers into Kursk, with reports indicating that 28 towns have fallen under Ukrainian control. In response, Russia has been reinforcing its defenses, particularly around the Kursk nuclear power plant, which is in proximity to the conflict zone. The situation has led to the displacement of approximately 200,000 residents from Kursk and a state of emergency declared in the neighboring Belgorod province due to the impact of Ukrainian strikes.
As the conflict intensifies, both Ukrainian and Russian forces are engaged in mutual attacks, with Ukraine's air defense successfully intercepting a significant number of drones launched by Russia. Meanwhile, Russian forces claim to have destroyed numerous Ukrainian drones and missiles. This ongoing military confrontation raises concerns about the potential for further escalation and the humanitarian repercussions for civilians caught in the crossfire.
