Zelenskyy is aiming at a demilitarized region belonging to Russia.
Ukraine's Advance in Kursk Gains Momentum, President Zelensky Reveals Objective
In his first explicit revelation, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has disclosed the primary aim behind Ukraine's military advance in the western Russian region of Kursk. As stated in his evening address, Ukraine is eyeing "the establishment of a boundary zone on the adversary's territory." The intense combat in Kursk and other eastern Ukrainian regions have necessitated prompt replenishment of weapons and ammunition from Western allies. Zelensky appealed to the USA, Britain, and France, noting, "The war doesn't take a break."
Although the Ukrainian troops are performing commendably, Zelensky emphasized the need to expedite aid shipments. Ukraine's success hinges on these timely deliveries.
According to Forbes, the Ukrainian military is incurring unusually substantial equipment losses during their Kursk offensive. The damaging of tanks, armored vehicles, and heavy weapons is disproportionately high compared to losses on the Russian side, suggesting a significant strategic imbalance.
Being an offensive on open terrain, the vehicles frequently become targets of aerial and artillery attacks, leading to "twice the usual" losses, the magazine reported, citing analysts. However, if Ukraine manages to maintain its hold on captured territory, the losses will have been warranted.
Intense Pressure in Donbass
While Ukraine remains aggressive in Kursk, it assumes a defensive posture elsewhere, particularly in the Donbass region. Ukrainian forces have reportedly faced intense pressure, with retreats from certain areas. Zelensky highlighted the significance of Torez's vicinity, indicating that Ukraine's primary goal now is to inflict as much damage as possible to Russia's war potential and conduct counter-offensive operations.
On the Pokrovsk front, Ukrainian military officials acknowledged the challenges. "We can choose to retreat, surrender a small settlement, or lose a minor skirmish," said Serhiy Zehorovsky, a brigade commander, in a televised statement. "But our ultimate goal is to win the war."
Currently, Russian troops are attempting to disrupt the supply line between Pokrovsk and Karlivka near Mykolaivka. "Here, they're attempting something," said Zehorovsky. However, the Russian military appears to be prepared for an unexpected move at this juncture, as suggested by the officer but without offering specifics.
The European Union has been a crucial source of aid for Ukraine, providing necessary weapons and ammunition to strengthen Ukraine's defense during their Kursk offensive. Recognizing the strategic importance of the European Union's support, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed his gratitude and appealed for continued assistance in maintaining Ukraine's momentum against Russian forces.
