2024-08-24 18:18:09
Ukrainian forces are gradually taking control of strategically important territory in Russia’s Kursk region, preparing for a protracted conflict. According to the Wall Street Journal, Ukrainian troops are advancing to encircle about 3,000 Russian soldiers who are trapped near a river.
Mick Ryan, a military strategist and retired Australian Army major general, noted that Ukraine, rather than seeking to advance deeper into Russian territory, prefers to expand the boundaries of its invasion. This approach allows Ukrainian forces to hold more defensible positions closer to their borders, making it easier to supply and support them.
Ryan stressed that holding these territories represents an important step in Ukraine’s strategy, as these areas are easier to defend and maintain than more remote areas.
The creation of a so-called “buffer zone” by Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region puts Russian President Vladimir Putin in front of a difficult dilemma.
If he decides to dislodge Ukrainian forces from their positions, it will require a significant diversion of resources and troops, which could weaken Russian positions in other parts of the front, especially in Ukraine.
Such actions will not only complicate the overall military situation for Russia, but will also threaten the stability of Russian defense in other areas.
Experts believe that Russian military commanders are not particularly enthusiastic about a possible offensive in the Kursk region. They realize that such an operation could be extremely costly both in material and strategic terms. Moreover, to successfully carry out such an operation, it may be necessary to use scorched earth tactics, which, in turn, could lead to significant destruction and serious losses.
Earlier, Kursor reported that the Ukrainian Armed Forces launched a counteroffensive on another section of the front.
As a result of the operation, which began on August 15, the Ukrainian Armed Forces advanced two kilometers, destroying enemy strongholds.