The war between Russia and Ukraine has seen few moments of direct collaboration.
However, a recent development suggests limited coordination between the two sides, as Russia announced an agreement with Ukraine to evacuate civilians from the contested Kursk region.
Evacuation Agreement Reached
On Monday, Russian officials claimed that a deal had been struck with Ukraine to relocate civilians from the Kursk region, which has been partially occupied by Ukrainian forces since August 2024.
Tatiana Moskalkova, Russia’s Commissioner for Human Rights, stated that some evacuees had already reached Ukraine’s Sumy region and would be transported to Russia via Belarus.
The agreement reportedly involved the Red Cross and Ukrainian authorities, as reported by Digi24.
Ukrainian officials have not yet confirmed the arrangement, though Kyiv had previously expressed willingness to facilitate such evacuations if requested by Moscow.
Civilians Caught in the Conflict
Ukraine has maintained control over parts of the Kursk region despite Russian counteroffensives. Kyiv views the occupied territory as a potential bargaining chip in any future negotiations with Moscow.
Estimates suggest that hundreds, possibly thousands, of Russian civilians were stranded as Ukraine advanced into Kursk. Many sought refuge in Sumy, while others accused Moscow of failing to act sooner.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) stated that it does not independently verify such agreements but is prepared to assist in ensuring a "safe and dignified" transfer of civilians.
Rare Instance of Cooperation
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began three years ago, diplomatic engagement between the two countries has been minimal.
However, prisoner exchanges, body repatriations, and civilian evacuations remain areas where both sides occasionally collaborate.
With tensions still high and territorial disputes unresolved, the Kursk evacuation highlights the humanitarian complexities of the ongoing war.
