President Zelensky of Ukraine has announced that the Ukrainian military operation in Russia’s Kursk Oblast has helped prevent the occupation of Sumy Oblast and its regional center, the city of Sumy. The incursion into Kursk Oblast began on August 6, and as of August 20, the Ukrainian military had taken control of 1,263 square kilometers and 93 settlements, including the town of Sudzha. Kursk Oblast borders Sumy Oblast, which has been subjected to daily Russian attacks since parts of it were liberated in April 2022. Zelensky praised the operation’s progress in Kursk Oblast, stating that it is complex but going according to plan. One of the goals of the operation is to replenish stocks of Russian prisoners of war for potential exchange with Ukrainian POWs in Russia.
Zelensky expressed optimism that all the operation’s goals in Kursk Oblast would be achieved, including revealing the true intentions of Russian President Vladimir Putin. He highlighted the importance of showing Russia’s society whether Putin values the occupation of Ukrainian territory or the protection of the Russian population more. The president emphasized that through this operation, it is becoming clear that Putin is more focused on maintaining control over occupied territories rather than safeguarding his own people, as evidenced by the Russian bombings in their villages. The Ukrainian military has reported that Russian aircraft have dropped guided aerial bombs on Ukrainian-controlled settlements in Kursk Oblast, and Russian shelling continues in border communities in Sumy Oblast.
Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk has announced plans for the evacuation of 45,000 residents from Sumy Oblast due to intensified Russian attacks on the region. Ukraine’s military is establishing a “security zone” on Russian territory to protect Ukrainian border areas, creating safe corridors for civilians to evacuate both towards Ukraine and other parts of Russia. The goal is to conduct humanitarian operations in the area and ensure the safety of civilians amidst the ongoing conflict. Additionally, President Zelensky has outlined the strategic aim of establishing a buffer zone in Kursk Oblast to destroy as much Russian war potential as possible and protect Ukraine’s border region.
The ongoing military operations in Kursk Oblast underscore the continued aggression and conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The Ukrainian military’s incursion into Russian territory has been met with resistance from Russian forces, leading to heightened tensions in the region. The efforts to prevent the occupation of Sumy Oblast and protect Ukrainian civilians highlight the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian government and military in the face of Russian aggression. The evacuation of residents from Sumy Oblast and the establishment of a security zone demonstrate Ukraine’s commitment to safeguarding its people and mitigating the impact of the conflict on civilian populations.
The international community has been closely monitoring the situation in Ukraine and Russia, with concerns over the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis. The continued attacks on Ukrainian-controlled territories by Russian forces have raised alarm among world leaders and prompted calls for diplomatic solutions to the conflict. As the conflict in Eastern Europe shows no signs of abating, the need for support for independent journalism in the region becomes increasingly urgent. By shedding light on the realities of the conflict and providing accurate information to the public, independent journalists play a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability in times of crisis. Support for independent journalism in Ukraine is vital in the fight for truth and justice amid the ongoing conflict.
