Ukraine’s armed forces have reportedly launched a new offensive in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, according to Russian media on February 6. The Ukrainian forces allegedly attacked southeast of Sudzha, advancing towards the settlements of Fanaseevka and Ulanok.
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed that Ukraine deployed up to two mechanized battalions for the offensive. As a result of alleged fighting, a gas pipeline was damaged in the Rylskyi district.
Ukraine’s presence in Kursk Oblast is believed to be a strategic move to use as leverage in potential peace talks with Russia. The area has seen significant combat operations over the past six months, resulting in nearly 40,000 Russian personnel losses, including 16,000 killed and 909 taken as prisoners of war.
Russia’s forces in Kursk Oblast have been bolstered by North Korean troops, deployed to counter the Ukrainian incursion. Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi acknowledged that North Korean soldiers present a significant challenge due to their training and motivation.
However, the heavy losses suffered by the North Korean army are attributed to its lack of combat experience and human wave tactics. Ukraine’s military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov suggested that the North Korean military is willing to advance on foot against Ukrainian drones and artillery due to loyalty to dictator Kim Jong-un.
In a recent incident, Ukrainian Special Operations Forces resisted a North Korean assault in Kursk Oblast for eight hours before retreating, killing 21 soldiers and wounding 40. The incident highlights the challenges posed by North Korean forces in the region.
Source: https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-launches-new-offensive-in-kursk-oblast-russia-claims-kyiv-hasnt-confirmed