Ukraine war briefing: Zelenskyy reports ‘significant’ Russian, North Korean troop losses in Kursk
GuardianDEC 22 2024
Ukraine Launches Renewed Offensive in Russia's Kursk Region
Above: Ukrainian soldiers of the 68th Jaeger Brigade continue their military activity in positions in the Pokrovsk region, Ukraine, on Dec. 27, 2024. Image copyright: Piotr Sobik/Anadolu/Contributor via Getty Images
The Facts
Ukraine launched a new offensive in Russia's Kursk region on Sunday, officials from both countries confirmed later in the day.
It comes months after Ukraine first launched its surprise incursion into the region last August — catching Russia off-guard and capturing roughly 500 sq miles (1.3K sq km) of territory. It marked the first ground invasion of Russia since World War II.
Since then, Russian forces have slowly edged Ukrainian troops back — regaining an estimated 40% of the land, according to analysts — but have been unable to fully drive back the Ukrainian effort. This is despite thousands of North Korean troops being deployed alongside Russia in the region.
The Spin
Pro-Ukraine narrative
Ukraine's offensive in the Kursk region is important because the more territory it gains, the more it will strengthen its hand in any possible peace negotiations.
Pro-Russia narrative
Russian forces have crushed Ukraine's attempt at gaining a foothold in the Kursk region. Over the past day, hundreds of personnel and dozens of pieces of equipment were liquidated.
Metaculus Prediction
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