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Ukraine's Kursk Offensive: State of Emergency Declared, 3,000 Evacuated

Aug 9, 2024, 02:00 AM

Ukrainian forces have launched a significant cross-border offensive into Russia's Kursk region, marking the largest such incursion since the start of the war. The operation, which began on August 6, involves thousands of Ukrainian troops and has resulted in the capture of approximately 350 square kilometers of Russian territory. The offensive has prompted Russia to declare a state of emergency in the region and call in military reserves. Russian media reports indicate that the Ukrainian forces have advanced up to 25 kilometers into Russian territory, capturing the city of Sudzha and causing the evacuation of around 3,000 residents. The incursion has led to intense battles between Russian and Ukrainian troops, with reports of destroyed Russian military convoys and infrastructure. Ukrainian officials claim the operation aims to disrupt Russian military operations and draw forces away from the eastern front in Ukraine. Additionally, Ukrainian forces have reportedly taken hundreds of prisoners.