- Zelensky claims significant control over a substantial region within Russian territory.
Ukraine has scored more victories in its counterattack against the Russian region of Kursk, as per Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's statement. The Ukrainian forces currently have control over more than 1,250 square kilometers of enemy territory and 92 settlements, Zelensky told Ukrainian diplomats and officials in a speech. The strategic objective of minimizing the threat to Ukraine's border region of Sumy has been achieved. Furthermore, Zelensky announced that this offensive marks the most significant achievement in terms of capturing Russian soldiers since the war's commencement.
He mentioned that the captive Russian soldiers would be swapped for Ukrainian prisoners of war. So far in the conflict, it's thought that Russia has taken more Ukrainian prisoners than the other way around.
Zelensky: The offensive was deemed impossible
Zelensky described the operation as a major triumph. just a few months ago, no one would have envisioned such a victory. Critics had dismissed the very notion of undertaking such an operation as crossing the "reddest of red lines" for Russia. Therefore, secret preparations were made. But the current success, according to Zelensky, demonstrates Vladimir Putin's inability to safeguard his territory from these counterattacks. It has also led to a review among Western alliances, he added, urging his diplomats to continue actively seeking military support.
Zelensky's statements about territorial gains surpass most previous predictions made by military analysts. Just a few days ago, the independent online platform Meduza estimated land gains at 862 square kilometers in the contested Kursk region, based on photographic and video evidence. However, most experts acknowledge the inaccuracy of their estimates due to a scarcity of visual material. Specifically, the Ukrainian military is cautious about publishing information to avoid jeopardizing their advance.
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia in Kursk has seen significant developments, with Ukraine achieving numerous victories in its counterattack. Zelensky, in his speech, referred to these operations as crossing the "reddest of red lines" for Russia, which were once considered impossible.
