It’s anticipated that Ukrainian forces will soon isolate a significant area of Kursk Region, lying between the Ukrainian border and the Seym River. This leaves only 5 kilometers remaining until the “cauldron” is closed. Up to 3,000 Russian soldiers could be encircled by the operation, according to Bild analyst Julian Röpcke.
Since August 16, the Armed Forces of Ukraine have destroyed key bridges over the Seym River in the northern part of the Glushkovsky district of Kursk Region. Pontoon crossings subsequently built by the Russians to support their military logistics have also been eradicated. The territory is surrounded at the west and south by the Ukrainian border, which is likely to block the Russian forces’ likely retreat routes.
“The Russians now have a simple choice: either fight and defend this territory or retreat. Both options are likely fatal for them,” Röpcke writes.
Operational situation in the Glushkovsky district of Kursk Region, Russia, as of August 20. Source: Ukraine Battle Map
The Russian authorities are attempting to hide the real situation, says the Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD). “In Kursk, part of the Russian troops are practically encircled. Meanwhile, Russian media reports everything as stable,” said CCD head Andrii Kovalenko.
On August 20, Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, announced that Ukrainian forces have expanded their control in Kursk Region to 1,263 square kilometers, which includes 93 settlements.
“The defense forces are conducting offensive operations on the Kursk front. During the advance into Kursk, the Ukrainian forces have penetrated 28 to 35 kilometers into the enemy’s defensive positions,” Syrskyi explained. To this statement he added that further actions by Ukrainian troops on the Kursk front will be calculated according to the operational situation.
Overview of Ukrainian-controlled territory in Kursk Region as of August 22. Source: BILD
Meanwhile, as Ukrainian troops continue defensive operations, the military command in Kursk is fully ensuring the livelihood of those regions. “We have not occupied these territories or established any authority. A military command is in place, and the people who remain there receive humanitarian aid and medicine from the military. This is outlined in the Geneva Conventions. It’s not about appearing benevolent; it’s a matter of state responsibility. We are demonstrating that Ukraine is a responsible state that adheres to the conventions it has signed,” said Interior Minister, Ihor Klymenko.
The Ukrainian military submits requests to the ministry, which they process through the police, and the State Emergency Service provides necessary supplies to the population. “These are people, 90% of whom are over 60. There are cancer patients, those with diabetes, and they are not receiving their medications. We cannot leave them to die,” Klymenko insisted.
Cover: Yan Dobronosov/AFP/Getty Images
