The Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) may continue to hold captured territory in Russia’s Kursk region for several more months, a move that could play a key role in future negotiations with Moscow, according to senior U.S. officials who spoke to Bloomberg.
Since Ukrainian forces have faced no issues in supplying their units in the region, it is possible that Kyiv will maintain its hold on the area for the foreseeable future.
Ukrainian Advance
Ukraine’s surprise incursion into the Kursk region on August 6, 2024, took many by surprise, including Ukraine’s Western allies.
UAF forces have since secured control over approximately 1,300 square kilometers of Russian territory, including about 100 settlements.
Despite this, Russian forces have launched only limited counterattacks, choosing to focus instead on the battle for Donbas.
Some U.S. officials were initially concerned about the cost of the operation, particularly if Russia managed to stage a significant counteroffensive.
However, Ukraine has so far been able to fortify its positions and plan future operations, even as Kyiv prepares its defense strategy for the winter.
Strategic Impact on Future Negotiations
The ongoing Ukrainian occupation of parts of Kursk could become a key bargaining chip in future negotiations with Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has hinted that this territory might be used as leverage during peace talks.
Russian authorities have categorically rejected the possibility of dialogue until they reclaim the region.
In response to Ukraine's advances, Russian President Vladimir Putin doubled down on his commitment to the “liberation” of Donbas, calling it the military's primary focus. He also emphasized that it is Russia’s "sacred duty" to push Ukrainian forces out of Kursk.
Putin reportedly halted any consideration of peace talks after Ukraine’s offensive in the region, interpreting it as part of a broader plan by Kyiv to escalate the conflict.
Future of the Conflict
As the Ukrainian military strengthens its defensive positions in the Kursk region, it is also preparing for future operations, potentially involving newly formed brigades.
With stable supplies of artillery ammunition, Ukraine is poised to continue its resistance, as Western support remains strong.
