Ukrainian forces are continuing to resist Russian and North Korean troops in Russia’s Kursk region, despite reports suggesting they are surrounded. President Volodymyr Zelensky refuted these claims on Saturday, emphasizing that his troops remain in position but face increasing threats.
Russia’s Defense Ministry announced that its forces had retaken two villages near Sudzha, a town just 10 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. Meanwhile, more than 300 civilians from the area have been evacuated due to the ongoing clashes.
Concerns Over a New Russian Offensive in Sumy
Zelensky, after a briefing with Ukraine’s top military officials, warned that Moscow is amassing troops for a new offensive on the northeastern Sumy region.
“This indicates an intention to attack Sumy,” he stated. “We are aware of this and will counter it.”
He also called on international allies to recognize Russian President Vladimir Putin’s military ambitions.
“I want all partners to understand what Putin is planning and what he is preparing for,” Zelensky added.
International Reactions and Ceasefire Talks
Despite Russia’s military buildup, Putin recently expressed conditional support for a 30-day ceasefire proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump. However, he insisted that fighting would continue until key terms were established.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that Western allies are preparing contingency plans to support Ukraine in case of a potential peace agreement.
“The buildup of Russian forces indicates that Moscow intends to keep ignoring diplomacy,” Zelensky said. “It is clear that Russia is prolonging the war.”
Ukraine’s Military Gains and New Weapons
On the battlefield, Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine has stabilized its position near the strategic eastern city of Pokrovsk. Additionally, Ukrainian forces have successfully deployed a new long-range missile, named “Long Neptune,” which has a strike range of 1,000 kilometers.
As Ukraine works to strengthen its domestic defense industry, this new missile capability could reduce reliance on Western military aid.
Russia’s Advances in Kursk
Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed the recapture of the villages of Rubanshchina and Zaoleshenka, just outside Sudzha. Ukrainian military sources also noted that Russian forces have expanded their control in the region.
Ukraine’s General Staff reported that 11 armed clashes occurred in Kursk on Saturday, with ongoing battles in three areas. Russia launched 21 airstrikes, dropped 32 guided bombs, and shelled Ukrainian positions over 150 times.
While the situation in Kursk remains volatile, Ukraine’s leadership remains focused on repelling Russian advances and preparing for further offensives in Sumy.
