40,000 Russian Troops Diverted to Kursk Direction, Says Zelenskyy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that approximately 40,000 Russian soldiers have been diverted to the Kursk direction.

"We have already managed to divert about 40,000 Russian troops to this area [Kursk region]. Our active actions continue. There are also reinforcements for us, for Ukraine. All of this is important and affects the overall situation in the war. I thank all our combat brigades, every soldier, sergeant, and commander for their bravery," Zelenskyy said.

Ukrainian President also mentioned a series of meetings with military leadership: "We are preparing the groundwork for detailed and thorough negotiations with our partners. This pertains to both Donetsk and other areas."

"Currently, the Defense Forces of Ukraine have managed to reduce the assault potential of the occupiers in Donetsk. The situation remains extremely difficult, with heavy fighting ongoing daily in the Kurakhiv and Pokrovsk directions."

"We are doing everything possible to ensure the resilience of our combat brigades," Zelenskyy concluded.

Ukraine officially announced carrying out an operation in the Kursk region on August 12. In order to repel the Ukrainian offensive, Russia withdrew its troops from some directions of the frontline, in particular from Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv and other areas.