Russian forces initiated a significant counteroffensive in the Kursk region, targeting Ukrainian troops, marking the Kremlin’s first substantial military action in over five weeks. This operation, which began on Sept. 10, aims to dislodge Ukrainian forces from the area, with ongoing engagements reported into the following day.
The dynamics of the conflict are still unclear, with some reports suggesting that the troops involved may come from the front lines in eastern Ukraine or reserves from other parts of Russia.
Elements of the 155th Marine Brigade, traditionally based in Vladivostok and veterans of the conflict in Ukraine, are reported to be participating in the offensive. However, the Russian Defense Ministry has not confirmed these actions, and Ukrainian officials have not acknowledged the counteroffensive.
Russian military blogger channel Rybar, which has over 1 million subscribers, reported that Russian forces successfully recaptured at least two localities with minimal resistance.
This counteroffensive is taking place against the backdrop of an ongoing larger conflict.
In August, Ukraine achieved a significant military incursion into Russia — the first of its kind since World War II — claiming control of about 500 square miles of Russian territory.
DeepState, a mapping service affiliated with the Ukrainian Defense Ministry, reported that Russian troops had crossed the Seym River in Kursk with armored units. This move complicates Ukraine’s tactical situation, especially after its efforts to destroy bridges to impede Russian advances.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Ukraine’s actions in Kursk have not hindered Russia’s advances in eastern Ukraine. Instead, he claimed they had weakened Kyiv’s defenses, allowing Russian forces to accelerate their offensive in the Donbas region, a critical strategic objective for Moscow.
Despite these developments, Russia continues its military operations in eastern Ukraine, with ongoing efforts to advance toward Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region.