Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for the rapid elimination of Ukrainian military units that crossed into the Kursk Region. During a recent visit to a command post in the area, Putin emphasized the urgency of neutralizing the incursion, as Russian forces continue a large-scale counteroffensive.
During his visit, President Putin convened with top military officials, including General Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff. He commended the armed forces for their efforts and acknowledged their progress in reclaiming territory.
“Our objective is to neutralize hostile forces entrenched within Kursk Region as swiftly as possible,” Putin stated. He also mentioned the possibility of establishing a “security zone” along the Ukrainian border to prevent future incursions. Furthermore, he classified captured Ukrainian soldiers as "terrorists," reinforcing Moscow's stance on the conflict.
According to General Gerasimov, Russian forces have regained control over 259 square kilometers, including 24 towns and villages within the past five days. He described Ukrainian troops in the region as “encircled” and “isolated.”
A Kremlin-released video showed President Putin in military fatigues, meeting with Gerasimov outside a command post before proceeding inside to discuss strategy with other high-ranking officers.
General Gerasimov further reported that Ukrainian forces have suffered over 67,000 casualties since the beginning of the counteroffensive. Russian troops have liberated more than 1,100 square kilometers—approximately 86% of the territory initially seized by Kiev’s forces since last year’s offensive.
The visit followed reports of the recapture of Sudzha, the largest city in the Kursk Region previously occupied by Ukrainian troops. Videos circulating on social media purportedly show Russian forces raising a flag in the city center, though fighting reportedly continues in Sudzha’s western and northwestern districts.
Earlier this week, Russian troops successfully reclaimed 12 settlements and over 100 square kilometers of land in a meticulously planned assault. The operation, prepared over several months, saw 800 soldiers infiltrate Ukrainian positions through an abandoned gas pipeline, enabling them to take control of key industrial zones.
Ukraine’s military launched an incursion into the Kursk Region in August 2024, seizing Sudzha and multiple villages. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky described the move as an effort to strengthen Ukraine’s position in future peace negotiations.
However, the Ukrainian advance was swiftly countered by Russian forces, which have since been systematically reclaiming territory. The Russian military's continued success in Kursk signals a shift in momentum, underscoring Moscow’s ability to repel offensive actions near its border.