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Ukraine Extends Invitation to UN and ICRC to Visit Captured Territory in Kursk Region
Ukraine has extended an invitation to the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to visit territory it has captured in Russia’s Kursk region. This invitation comes as a demonstration of Ukraine’s adherence to humanitarian law amidst its ongoing military incursion into the region. The Kremlin has labeled this move as a “provocation” and expressed confidence that the UN and Red Cross would decline the invitation.
Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry issued the open invitation for the humanitarian missions to visit Kursk following a request made by Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha during a visit to the northeastern Sumy region, which borders Russia. Sybiha stated that Ukraine is prepared to facilitate their work and showcase its commitment to international humanitarian law.
In contrast to accusations of abuses by Russian troops, Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine’s Defense Forces have displayed full adherence to international humanitarian law since the beginning of the Kursk operation. The Kremlin dismissed these statements as provocations and expressed reluctance towards allowing international observers to witness the situation in the region.
Since the incursion began in early August, Ukraine claims to have gained control of over 1,200 square kilometers of Russian territory in Kursk. As international debates escalate on providing military aid to Ukraine and easing restrictions on long-range attacks on Russia, President Vladimir Putin has ordered an increase in troop numbers in the Russian military to a total of 1.5 million soldiers.
Amidst ongoing conflict, Ukraine’s air force reported shooting down 53 Russian drones targeting various regions, with Kyiv being a primary focus of overnight bombardments. Civilians have also been impacted by the violence, with injuries reported in both Kharkiv and Belgorod regions.
As the situation remains tense, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has urged allies to promptly implement agreements on weapons and supplies to support Ukraine’s efforts. Discussions on peace summits and military aid continue to evolve, with Ukraine’s allies showing increasing support for easing restrictions on long-range attacks and strengthening defenses against Russian assaults.
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia shows no signs of abating, with both sides engaging in military action and facing mounting challenges in the pursuit of their respective objectives. As international scrutiny intensifies, the need for humanitarian aid and efforts to end the war become ever more pressing.
