NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has affirmed Ukraine's recent offensive into Russia's Kursk region as a legitimate act of self-defense under international law. He clarified that Ukraine's right to defend itself does not stop at the border, emphasizing that NATO was unaware of Ukraine's plans beforehand and did not play a role in the operation. This incursion, which began on August 6, aims to create a buffer zone against Russian attacks and has involved significant territorial gains for Ukraine. Despite risks associated with the operation, Stoltenberg stated it is ultimately Ukraine's decision on how to prosecute its military efforts. The U.K. has also indicated that Ukraine may project force into Russian territory under Article 51 of the UN Charter due to ongoing Russian assaults. Meanwhile, tensions remain high as both sides continue to engage in hostilities, with recent strikes resulting in casualties on both Ukrainian and Russian soil.