Battle of Kursk is currently the focal point of global geopolitical discussions and something for a change in Russo-Ukrainian War. In a surprising turn of events, the Ukrainian army has launched an operation that has led to the capture of land in the Kursk region of Russia. This development marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, and its implications are long term.

How Ukraine Succeeded in the battle of Kursk gaining Russian Territory?

Battle of Kursk involved initially only 1000 soldiers fortified with tanks, artillery, drones and armored vehicles. Ukrainian forced pierced into Russian border in Kursk region last week and the Russian army has been fighting, albeit lost territory of nearly 1000 square kilometers. Russian soldiers have been taken as prisoners of war by Ukrainian soldiers.

ISW (Institute for the study of War) has geolocated footages and reported Ukrainian forces advances at least 10 KM into Russian territory, on 9^th Aug 2024.

In last 2.5 Years, this cross-border operation by Ukrainian forces is being looked at as an impressive, secret and still developing event. This operation is more than symbolic, a force multiplier to Ukraine’s leverage in future negotiations and obviously an embarrassment to Russia. The incursion by Ukraine army has caused evacuation of more than 1 Lac citizen from the region.

The acting Governor of Kursk, Alexei Smirnov, informed Putin that the Ukrainian troops have advanced 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) into the Kursk region along a 40-kilometer (25-mile) front, and they now have control over 28 settlements in Russia.

The operation has been met with resistance from Russia. Russia has reported that its forces checked an effort by Ukrainian troops to expand their weeklong incursion into the Kursk region. Despite this, the Ukrainian forces continue to push forward, marking a significant shift in the dynamics of the conflict.

Implications and Possible Outcomes

The implications of this operation are profound. For Russia, this development poses a significant embarrassment and a challenge. It is a direct threat to its territorial integrity and sovereignty. The operation also puts Russia in a difficult position internationally. Russia is now not just an aggressor, but also a country that is being invaded.

This development could potentially lead to an equal level negotiation between Ukraine and Russia. With Ukraine now controlling a part of Russian territory, it has gained a bargaining chip.

Ukraine could use this to negotiate a ceasefire or even a peace agreement. However, this is a double-edged sword. While it gives Ukraine leverage, it also risks provoking a renewed Russian onslaught. As per reports, Russia will proceed to strike back in Kursk.

However, it is true that the recent Ukrainian operation in the Kursk region marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Its implications are far-reaching and could potentially lead to an equal level negotiation or a renewed Russian onslaught. As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial to keep a close eye on these developments.

This is a rapidly evolving situation, and the details may change to a new scenario. The world watches with bated breath as the future of this conflict unfolds.

The hope is for a peaceful resolution that respects the sovereignty of all nations involved and brings an end to the suffering of the people caught in the crossfire.