[Discussion] Ukraine's Kursk Setback: 40% of Territory Retaken by Russia

[Uncrowned Guard]

Ukraine's Lost Ground: Over 40% of Initial Kursk Incursion Reclaimed

Ukraine, in the throes of territorial conflict with Russia, has conceded over 40 per cent of its former territorial gains in Russia's Kursk Oblast. This stems from heightened Russian counteractions, as reported by Reuters on November 23 citing a Ukrainian General Staff source.

According to the confidential source, at the peak of their territorial control, Ukraine's dominion extended over an estimated 1,376 square kilometers. However, this region has since dwindled due to escalating Russian counteractions. "Now we control approximately 800 square kilometers. We will retain control over this territory as long as militarily feasible," the source informed Reuters.

Ukraine's initial acquisition in Kursk Oblast occurred during a surprising intrusion into Russian terrain earlier this August. Since that time, Russia has commenced extensive countermeasures to reclaim its territory.

The Strategic Undertone: Putin's Plan Ahead of Trump's Inauguration

NATO allies speculate Russian President Vladimir Putin's determination to regain territory lost in Kursk Oblast before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20. As noted by The Telegraph, the objective likely involves establishing a strengthened position ahead of potential peace discussions.

The same source noted that an estimated 60,000 Russian army personnel are currently assigned in Kursk Oblast, with instructions to approach the border with Sumy Oblast to establish a "buffer zone," emulating Ukraine's strategy in Kursk Oblast.

Prior statements from Kyiv highlighted that around 11,000 North Korean soldiers are supplementing the ongoing counteroffensive in Kursk. The Ukrainian General Staff source mentioned the majority of these North Korean soldiers are finalizing training alongside Russian forces.

Worsening Conflict: Russia Steps Up Its Efforts

As Russia endeavors to retake Kursk, it also ramps up efforts on the Eastern front. These intensified offensives place Ukrainian forces under rising pressure as they strive to secure pivotal positions.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Head of Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR), Vadym Skibitskyi, revealed a daunting piece of information on November 21. A staggering sum of roughly 580,000 Russian soldiers is involved in combat across Ukraine.

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