Official statements from either the Ukrainian or Russian governments and reports from reputable news agencies

Ukraine Launches Surprise Offensive in Russia's Kursk Region; Russia Claims to Repel Attacks

Jan 5, 2025, 01:25 PM

Ukrainian forces have launched a new offensive in Russia's Kursk region, which has been under partial Ukrainian control since a surprise ground offensive in August 2024. The offensive began around 9 am, with Ukrainian troops advancing from Sudzha and pushing towards Kurchatov and Bolshoye Soldatskoye, utilizing extensive electronic warfare equipment. The Russian Ministry of Defense stated that Ukraine initiated counterattacks aimed at halting Russian advances in the area and claimed that its forces have repelled two Ukrainian counter-attacks. Heavy fighting is reported to be ongoing, with Ukrainian forces pushing approximately 5-8 kilometers into Russian lines, particularly around the village of Berdin. The offensive appears to have taken Russian forces by surprise. The Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, acknowledged the offensive, stating, "Russia is getting what it deserves."