Putin’s First Visit to Kursk Region Since Ukrainian Army’s Incursion
Russian President Vladimir Putin made a significant visit to the command point of the Kursk grouping of forces, dressed in uniform. During his visit, he received a report from Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Army General Valery Gerasimov. This visit marks the first time the head of state has been to the Kursk Region since the Ukrainian forces’ incursion.
The Kursk Region of Russia has been under attack by Ukrainian forces since August 6, 2024. The Russian Armed Forces are actively engaged in operations to eliminate Ukrainian troops in the region, with five settlements being liberated in the past 24 hours alone. Notably, Russian forces have taken control of the central part of the town of Sudzha.
As per reports from the Russian Defense Ministry, Kyiv has suffered significant losses in terms of personnel and equipment during the fighting in the Kursk area. More than 66,810 Ukrainian troops have been lost, along with 392 tanks, 314 infantry fighting vehicles, 275 armored personnel carriers, 2,191 armored combat vehicles, 545 artillery pieces, and 52 rocket launchers. This includes the destruction of 13 US-made HIMARS systems and seven MLRS systems.
Putin’s visit and the ongoing military operations in the Kursk Region highlight the intensity of the conflict and the strategic importance of the area for both Russia and Ukraine.
