Zelensky Confirms Ukrainian Incursion into Kursk Aims to Establish Buffer Zone, Amidst Rising Tensions in Eastern Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that the military incursion into the Kursk region is designed to establish a “buffer zone” to prevent further cross-border attacks by Russian forces. The operation, which has included the destruction of multiple bridges, aims to disrupt Russian logistics and stretch their resources while boosting Ukrainian morale.

The incursion launched nearly two weeks ago, has seen Ukrainian forces advancing and securing control over several settlements within the Kursk region.

Despite the progress in Kursk, Ukraine continues to face significant challenges in the east where Russian forces are making strides toward key military hubs. Russian troops are advancing toward Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region, prompting authorities to accelerate evacuation efforts for the city’s residents. With heavy fighting and missile attacks ongoing, officials in Pokrovsk are working to protect and evacuate civilians as the Russian threat draws nearer.

The Ukrainian offensive in Kursk has been aimed at weakening Russia’s military capabilities and ensuring a “fair” negotiation process. Zelensky emphasized that the primary goals of the operation were to destroy Russian military potential and create a defensive buffer zone on Russian territory. The strategy is intended to inflict economic and strategic losses on Russia, thereby contributing to a resolution of the conflict.

In Kursk, Ukrainian forces have reported significant territorial gains, including control over nearly 1,000 square kilometers of Russian land. Efforts to cripple Russian logistical capabilities have included precision airstrikes that destroyed bridges over the Seym river. The use of advanced weaponry like the US-made HIMARS has played a crucial role in these operations, further disrupting Russian supply lines.

While Ukraine makes gains in Kursk, Russia is intensifying its offensive in eastern Ukraine. The advance toward Pokrovsk is particularly concerning due to its strategic significance for Ukrainian military operations. With Russian forces nearing the city, there has been a push to evacuate civilians, including children, to ensure their safety as the conflict escalates.

The broader impact of the conflict is evident as intense fighting continues around various villages in Donetsk. Russia has employed a range of weaponry against Ukrainian targets, including missiles and drones. Ukrainian leaders have called for increased support from Western allies to sustain their defensive and offensive operations as they confront the ongoing aggression from Russian forces.