Ukraine Gains 1,300 Sq Km in Kursk Offensive

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine's forces have gained control of nearly 1,300 square kilometers of Russia's Kursk region, including 100 settlements, and captured 594 Russian prisoners. The incursion, described as the largest into Russia since WWII, aims to weaken Russia's positions by diverting its troops from key areas such as Pokrovsk and Kurakhovsk. Despite these gains, Ukrainian military officials acknowledge that Russia is reinforcing its positions and making incremental advances in eastern Ukraine. The offensive has led to extensive Russian civilian evacuations and has raised concerns about safety at the Kursk nuclear power plant. Zelenskyy has emphasized that Ukraine's actions are preventive to stop Russian advances into Ukrainian territories like Kharkiv and Sumy. Additionally, the conflict has escalated with Russia launching significant aerial attacks on Ukraine, resulting in casualties and infrastructure damage.