Ukrainian forces advance in Kursk, locals hopeful for better future

Russian residents of the Kursk region, who live in areas now governed by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, are not afraid of the new reality. One woman is even thrilled that Ukraine will now govern there. She hopes that the standard of living will finally improve.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine launched an offensive operation in the Kursk region on 6th August. Kyiv reported an increase in the area controlled by Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region.

According to data from General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the area occupied by Ukrainian armed forces has expanded to 1,260 square kilometres. It contains 100 localities.

The Ukrainian army entered these lands without major problems because the Russians did not consider the possibility of an invasion at all. The warning signals for the Kremlin were not even the spring raids conducted in this area by those fighting on the side of Ukraine: the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC), the Siberia Battalion, and the "Freedom of Russia" Legion.

Interestingly, Russian residents who are in areas occupied by Ukraine are not afraid of the new reality. One woman is even thrilled by the fact that Ukraine will govern there.

Here will be Ukraine, there will be gas and electricity. I would agree to anything for our presidents and people to reconcile. Why is Russia like this? There is no peace in our country or yours - said the Russian woman.

As reported by CIA Deputy Director David Cohen, the Ukrainian military intends to hold the areas taken in southwestern Russia for some time, which will not be easy. He added that a Russian counteroffensive should be expected in the Kursk region, where the Ukrainian operation is ongoing.

Interestingly, according to "The New York Times," it is more important for Russians to capture Pokrovsk than to defend the Kursk region from Ukrainian attack. This is the opinion of experts analysing the current front line situation.

Although Russia was surprised by the offensive in the Kursk region, it cares more about capturing Pokrovsk, which is a key logistical centre in the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine, and its leaders do not want to move troops from that front - reported "NYT," citing experts and Western politicians.