Ukrainian forces have launched a significant cross-border attack into Russia's Kursk region, marking one of the largest incursions since the onset of the war in February 2022. Reports indicate that hundreds of Ukrainian troops, supported by tanks and armored vehicles, have penetrated up to 15 kilometers into Russian territory, capturing several villages. Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned this as a 'large-scale provocation' and ordered urgent government meetings amid ongoing battles. The conflict in the area is intensifying, with reports of heavy fighting continuing for multiple days. Additionally, the recent incursion has prompted evacuations of Russian civilians from the affected regions. This escalation coincides with diplomatic tensions as Niger and Mali sever ties with Ukraine over accusations of support for rebel attacks in Mali.