Kursk Conflict: Zelensky’s Update on Ongoing Battles
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky provided a crucial update on Sunday, emphasizing that Ukrainian forces are still actively engaged in combat within the Russian-controlled Kursk region. This statement came just a day after Moscow declared the “full liberation” of its western area. Zelensky noted that Ukraine had aimed to leverage the territory for future peace negotiations, particularly as Russia continues to assert control over various parts of eastern and southern Ukraine following its invasion that began in February 2022.
“Our military continues to actively defend designated areas in the Kursk and Belgorod regions,” Zelensky shared via Telegram. He further highlighted that the conditions on the ground remain precarious across numerous zones, particularly in the Kursk region, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainian troops.
Russia’s Claims and Ukraine’s Response
On Saturday, Russian officials proclaimed their capture of Gornal, the last settlement that was under Ukrainian control in the Kursk region. This area had witnessed a surprising escalation in hostilities when Ukraine launched an offensive in August 2024. However, Kyiv swiftly countered these claims, with Ukraine’s military asserting that its forces were still present and labeling Russia’s announcements as deceptive propaganda.
Zelensky commented on the situation, stating, “The conditions at the front lines and the actual operations being conducted by the Russian army reveal that the existing pressure on Russia to resolve this war is lacking. We must bolster this pressure to pave the way for genuine diplomacy.” His remarks followed a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a potential ceasefire during a memorial event at the Vatican.
Recent Violence and Casualties
Later that evening, a series of drone and missile strikes by Russia resulted in the tragic deaths of four individuals across various eastern regions of Ukraine, with dozens more injured. This escalation of hostilities coincided with Russian Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov commending the contributions of North Korean soldiers, marking their formal involvement in the conflict.
Military analysts monitoring the situation reported ongoing skirmishes in the forests along the border, suggesting persistent fighting. A local commander observed that operations continued in the Kursk area, indicating that the conflict remains highly active.
Ukraine’s Counter-Offensive and Russia’s Response
In August 2024, Ukrainian troops launched a bold counter-offensive into Kursk, the site of a historically significant World War II tank battle. This operation also included the seizure of a pumping station previously responsible for supplying Russian gas to Europe. However, the tides of war shifted as Moscow managed to drive Ukrainian forces onto the defensive, steadily regaining control over much of the region.
Following a significant loss of U.S. intelligence support in March 2025, Russia intensified its military operations. Reports indicated that Russia executed a covert operation utilizing an underground gas pipeline as part of its renewed offensive strategy.
Future Implications of the Conflict
With the recapture of Kursk, Russia has signaled its intentions to continue advancing in the four Ukrainian regions it claimed to annex in 2022. Gerasimov has emphasized plans to establish a buffer zone in Ukraine’s Sumy region, which lies adjacent to Russia. Currently, Russia occupies approximately 20 percent of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, which was annexed in 2014.
The ongoing conflict illustrates the complex dynamics at play between Ukraine’s defensive efforts and Russia’s aggressive military strategies. As both sides navigate this contentious situation, the call for international diplomatic engagement grows ever more urgent.
