Ukrainian Forces Capture Sudzha and Advance into Kursk Region Amid Rising Tensions

Ukrainian Forces Advance into Kursk Region

In a significant development, Kyiv has successfully captured the Russian town of Sudzha as Ukrainian troops continue their strategic advance into the Kursk region. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced plans to establish a military commander’s office, although the precise functions and objectives of this office remain somewhat ambiguous.

Recent satellite imagery captured by Planet Labs PBC on Wednesday has revealed considerable damage inflicted on an airbase located in Borisoglebsk, following a targeted strike by a Ukrainian drone. The images indicate that the attack resulted in damage to two hangars, though it is still uncertain what specific purposes these structures served. Additionally, there appears to be potential damage to two fighter aircraft stationed at the base. Experts speculate that this attack may serve as a tactical diversion aimed at disrupting Russian airstrikes on Ukraine and could also impede Russian military advancements in the Donbass region.

In response to the escalating situation, Russia has declared a federal-level state of emergency in the Belgorod region, which borders Kursk, following a regional-level emergency declaration made just a day earlier. Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov addressed military officials and the regional governor of Belgorod in a meeting, outlining a comprehensive plan designed to ensure territorial integrity and bolster the protection of the border regions.

• Belousov emphasized the importance of enhancing the effectiveness of the command and control system in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies and the administration of the Belgorod region.
• He further stated that the measures implemented would include the identification of responsible officials and the allocation of additional forces and funds to achieve the primary objectives.

Evacuations in Kursk Region

As the situation intensifies, approximately 120,000 individuals have been evacuated or have fled the Kursk area. In a proactive measure, the regional governor of Kursk has ordered the evacuation of additional regions within Kursk. On Wednesday, residents were seen boarding buses in the towns of Rylsk and Lgovsk, while military personnel and local authorities are actively working to ensure the safe evacuation of residents from Glushkovo.

According to Russian officials, the total number of evacuees from Kursk has reached around 121,000 since Ukraine launched its unexpected cross-border offensive on August 6.