Ukrainian forces make gains in Kursk as locals express hope

Russian residents of the Kursk region, who are in areas taken over by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, are not afraid of the new reality. One woman is even thrilled that Ukraine will now govern there. She hopes that the standard of living will finally improve.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine launched an offensive operation in the Kursk region on August 6. Kyiv reported an increase in the area controlled by Ukrainian forces in the Kursk region.

According to data from General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the area occupied by Ukrainian armed forces has expanded to 488 square miles. It contains 100 localities.

The Ukrainian army entered these areas without major problems because the Russians did not consider the possibility of an invasion. The warning signals for the Kremlin were not even the spring raids conducted in this area by those fighting on the side of Ukraine: the Russian Volunteer Corps (RVC), the Siberia Battalion, and the "Freedom of Russia" Legion.

Interestingly, Russian residents of areas occupied by Ukraine are not afraid of the new reality. One woman is even thrilled that Ukraine will govern there.

Here will be Ukraine, there will be gas and electricity. I would agree to anything for our presidents and people to reconcile. Why is Russia like this? There is no peace in our country or yours - said the Russian woman.

As reported by CIA Deputy Director David Cohen, the Ukrainian military intends to hold the areas taken in southwestern Russia for some time, which will not be easy. He added that a Russian counteroffensive should be expected in the Kursk region, where the Ukrainian operation is ongoing.

Interestingly, according to "The New York Times," it is more important for Russians to capture Pokrovsk than to defend the Kursk region from Ukrainian attack. This is the opinion of experts analyzing the current front-line situation.