Russian Troops Attempt to Advance Through Gas Pipeline in Kursk Region

Ukrainian Airborne Assault Forces have successfully detected and engaged Russian forces attempting to approach the outskirts of Sudzha in Russia’s Kursk region via a gas pipeline.

The Russian troops, primarily composed of special forces units, have sustained significant losses due to targeted strikes by Ukrainian artillery, rocket systems, and drones.

According to the Ukrainian Airborne Assault Forces Command, Russian sabotage and assault groups used a branch of the Urengoy–Pomary–Uzhhorod gas pipeline to infiltrate the area.

Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance units promptly identified the movement, allowing for immediate strikes using precision artillery and missile systems, including cluster munitions delivered by HIMARS.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed that Russian forces are being systematically detected, blocked, and neutralized.

The situation near Sudzha remains under Ukrainian operational control, with no large-scale breakthroughs into Sumy region, contrary to some reports. The General Staff clarified that Russian units continue to operate in small groups near settlements such as Novenke and Zhuravka in Sumy region, attempting to secure footholds but facing continuous countermeasures.

Footage released by the Ukrainian military shows the engagement of Russian forces as they exited the pipeline. Geolocation data shared by open-source intelligence analysts corroborates the presence of Russian troops near Sudzha. Meanwhile, Russian sources have published images allegedly depicting their soldiers inside the gas pipeline.

The Russian offensive on Sudzha has involved units from multiple branches of its armed forces, including the 177th Regiment and the 810th Brigade of the Naval Infantry, airborne troops, and Chechen battalions. Reports indicate the deployment of North Korean military personnel, estimated at up to two battalions, to support the assault.