The ongoing conflict in the Kursk region of Russia could evolve into a prolonged and significant military campaign, according to John R. Deni, a professor at the U.S. Army War College and defense analyst.
Drawing Troops Away
Deni suggests that Ukraine’s recent offensive, despite heavy equipment losses, is part of a strategic move with potential long-term benefits, according to Tech.
Deni indicates that the Ukrainian operation in Kursk is not a short-term tactic but could be part of a broader, extended campaign. This strategy aims to strengthen Ukraine’s position, potentially influence nonexistent peace talks, and encourage increased Western support.
The offensive might also be designed to draw Russian troops away from other critical areas such as Donbas and Zaporizhzhia, thereby hindering Russian advances on Ukrainian territory.
Since the start of this operation, which saw its first significant action on August 16, Ukrainian forces have reportedly targeted multiple bridges across the Seim River. By August 19, a third bridge was damaged, forcing local civilians to evacuate via boat due to the destruction of crucial infrastructure.
6000 Soldiers Deployed
Estimates suggest Ukraine has deployed around 6,000 soldiers to Kursk, with an additional 4,000 stationed in the neighboring Sumy region. In response, Russia is reportedly repositioning over 20,000 of its own troops to counter the Ukrainian push.
Despite these efforts, the Ukrainian offensive has not come without cost. Reports indicate Ukrainian forces are losing armored vehicles at a rate twice that of the defending Russian troops. This includes significant losses of Stryker armored personnel carriers and Polish PT-91 Twardy tanks, which have been hit by drones.
Military analyst Philip Wasielewski notes that while the Ukrainian offensive has bolstered morale and had a substantial psychological impact on Russia, it has also effectively turned the conflict into a maneuver warfare scenario where Ukraine appears to have an advantage.
