Official casualty reports from Ukrainian and Russian defense ministries

Ukraine Advances 5-8 km in New Offensive in Russia's Kursk Region Near Berdin

Jan 5, 2025, 01:01 PM

Ukrainian forces have reportedly launched a new offensive in Russia's Kursk region on Sunday, aiming to expand their control in the area. The offensive began around 9:00 am Moscow time, with Ukrainian troops advancing approximately 5-8 kilometers into Russian lines, primarily around the village of Berdin. Andriy Yermak, the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, confirmed the offensive, stating that 'Russia is getting what it deserves.' Ukrainian forces are reported to be advancing in three directions from Sudzha, pushing Russian forces further back. The Russian Ministry of Defense acknowledged the counterattack, stating that Ukrainian forces launched the offensive to stop the advance of Russian troops in the Kursk direction. Russia claimed to have repelled two Ukrainian counterattacks and reported that Ukrainian forces lost up to 340 personnel in the Kursk region. Ukraine has held parts of the Kursk region since August 2024, and this new offensive appears to be a continuation of their efforts to solidify control in the area. Mixed reports have surfaced on the outcome of the offensive, with some sources indicating territorial gains by Ukrainian forces, while others assert that Russian forces have repelled the attacks.