On Monday, Moscow reported that Ukraine had attacked a third bridge in Russia's Kursk region, an action Kyiv claims is part of a strategy to establish a buffer zone and weaken Russia's military capabilities. Since its initial incursion on August 6, Ukraine asserts it has captured over 80 settlements across more than 1,150 square kilometers in Kursk, marking the largest invasion of Russia since World War II. However, Ukrainian forces are currently on the defensive in other areas and are struggling to defend the strategically important eastern city of Pokrovsk, where Russian advances have been significant in recent weeks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed on Telegram that the objectives of the two-week operation in Kursk are being met, noting an increase in Russian prisoners. Russia has confirmed damage to a third bridge over the Seym River, which borders northeastern Ukraine. Ukraine has yet to comment on this specific attack, but its air force chief has previously acknowledged the destruction of two bridges to disrupt enemy logistics. Military analysts highlight the critical role of these bridges in supplying Russian troops in the region. Independent verification of the bridge damage and the overall situation in Kursk by Reuters remains unconfirmed.
Zelenskiy described the ongoing military actions as "maximum counteroffensive actions" designed to create a buffer zone and diminish Russia's military strength. He emphasized that any action that harms the Russian military, state, or economy aids in preventing the escalation of the war. Over 121,000 people have been evacuated from nine border districts in the Kursk region according to Russia's emergencies ministry. Moscow has stated it is not currently prepared to engage in peace talks with Ukraine, especially given the recent attacks in Kursk.
Ukrainian forces are engaged in a challenging battle near Pokrovsk, a key transport hub. Russian troops are approximately 10 kilometers from the city outskirts, leading to daily evacuations of up to 600 people and potential disruptions to municipal services. The regional governor has tightened curfews in nearby settlements, describing the situation as "very difficult". Ukraine's top general has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to defend Toretsk, as Russia seeks to disrupt Ukrainian supply lines.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and widespread destruction across Ukraine. Ukraine anticipates a significant increase in Russian forces by the end of the year, from around 600,000 to 800,000. Despite receiving military support from allies, concerns persist about the sustainability of this support as the war continues. Britain has reaffirmed its support for Ukraine, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Kyiv on August 23. However, German defense stocks declined due to reports that additional military aid applications for Ukraine would not be approved due to budget constraints. The German finance ministry later clarified that it is working with G7 partners to facilitate loans for military support, funded by frozen Russian assets.
In a separate development, Russia's RIA news agency reported that Moscow has expressed dissatisfaction with Germany's investigation into the Nord Stream gas pipeline explosions in 2022.
