Ukraine launches strategic attack on Russia's Kursk region
Russia said on Sunday that Ukraine had launched a counter-attack in the Russian region of Kursk, where Kiev forces have already controlled several hundred square kilometers since the assault began in August 2024.
It's not yet possible to assess the Ukrainian advance in this region, but pro-Kremlin military bloggers have reported that a new Ukrainian offensive is underway.
The assault comes at a critical time in the conflict, which began nearly three years ago, just days before the January 20 inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, who has pledged to quickly negotiate a ceasefire between Kiev and Moscow.
Outgoing US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on January 6 that Ukrainian positions in the Russian oblast of Kursk could play an important role in any talks with Russia.
President Volodymyr Zelensky also called the Kursk incursion a “trump card” in any negotiations.
(MH with AmBar/Source: Agency/Photo: DPA/Anadolu/Pablo Miranzo)