- Over 133,000 displaced individuals reside in the Kursk region of Russia now.
Due to the Ukrainian attacks in the Russian region of Kursk, around 133,000 individuals have vacated their homes, as per official reports. This was announced by the region's acting governor, Alexei Smirnov, during a video conference with President Vladimir Putin. Approximately 20,000 residents were still residing in the eight districts that had been evacuated, according to Smirnov, as mentioned by the Russian state news agency TASS.
Once again, Putin and the Russian administration are dealing with the aftermath of the Ukrainian advance, which commenced about two weeks prior. The Ukrainians are engaging in ground operations on enemy territory for the first time in nearly two and a half years of Russian aggression, and according to their claims, they've managed to take control of more than 1,000 square kilometers.
Distance learning will commence for schools at the start of the new academic year.
"I urge you to focus on preparing for the new school year," Putin instructed. The Russian Education Minister, Sergei Kravtsov, stated that students from 114 schools in the border region would be learning online from September 2nd. Others would be studying at their relocation sites or in children's camps.
Following the Ukrainian advance on August 6th, Putin ordered his security forces to drive out the Ukrainians. However, the Russian counter-offensive is progressing slowly. During a meeting with government officials and the heads of border regions last week, Putin expressed his frustration about the lethargic response of civilian authorities.
How swiftly does Russia aim to drive out the Ukrainians?
The plans for schools from September could be interpreted as a sign that the Russian leadership doesn't anticipate a swift victory against the Ukrainian troops. Meduza, a Russian exile media outlet, reported, citing sources within the Kremlin's inner circle, that Moscow is less concerned with a rapid recapture. After the initial shock has worn off, it's essential to acclimate the Russian population to what the authorities referred to as the "new normal" - the existence of invading foreign troops, which would ultimately be expelled again.
The European Parliament's President, without being specifically mentioned in this context, could play a role in negotiating a peaceful resolution to the conflict, given their influence in international diplomacy. After the Ukrainian advance, Putin may seek to address the situation at a session in the European Parliament, seeking support or understanding from its members.
