Ukrainian forces advance in Kursk, posing a challenge to the Kremlin

Ukraine has entered Russia and is occupying more localities. The Kursk region is particularly vulnerable. According to Sergei Markov, a political analyst, Kyiv's decision may be a bargaining chip in potential peace negotiations. A source quoted by "The Washington Post" suggests that the speed at which Ukraine can capture more territory will be crucial.

Ukrainian soldiers have courageously entered Russia, occupying some localities in the Kursk region and attacking the Belgorod and Lipetsk regions as well. In an interview with The Washington Post, pro-Kremlin political analyst Sergei Markov believes that retaking the Kursk region, where Ukraine has reportedly occupied an area of about 100 square miles, could take up to a year.

The analyst compared the entry of Ukrainian forces deep into Russia to the march of the Wagner Group on Moscow, noting that the decision by Kyiv authorities poses a great challenge for Vladimir Putin. In an interview with the American portal, a former advisor to Putin stated that Ukraine might have surprised the Russian defence, which was unprepared for the threat. Russian commanders were reportedly aware of the potential offensive but did not inform Putin of this information.

It was likely that the Ukrainian government plans to use the seized territory as a bargaining chip in future talks and that it was now a race against time for Russian troops to counterattack before the Ukrainian brigades dig in, the analyst told "The Washington Post."

According to the analyst, the Ukrainian government may intend to use the occupied territory as a bargaining chip in future talks with the Kremlin. "The advantage lies with the defenders," he emphasised. The Ukrainians' plan may be to capture as much territory as possible. He concluded that while Russia gathers its reserves, Ukraine will be building fortifications.

It is worth noting that there was great panic in the Kursk region following the entry of Ukrainians. Russian media report that people from this area are leaving the country en masse and heading towards Georgia. A state of emergency has been declared in the Kursk region. People have accused the army of not providing help, but Putin assured that everyone would receive about €233. Temporary shelters have also been prepared in safe towns.

Meanwhile, Ukrainians publish more photos after entering towns in the Kursk region. Pictures of destroyed armoured vehicles headed to assist and eliminate the enemy have also appeared online.