Ukrainian Presence in Kursk Region Likely to Persist, Reports Forbes

In Kursk region, there is increasing evidence that the Ukrainian force—potentially up to five brigades totaling 2,000 personnel plus at least one separate battalion of 400 troops—is planning to remain in the region, reports Forbes.

“That both sides are fortifying their positions doesn’t mean the Ukrainians are done advancing. Nor does it mean the Russians can’t counterattack—and push the Ukrainians back to the border, 10 miles away,” Forbes wrote. However, it does suggest that the stabilization of the front line and long-term Ukrainian control of part of Kursk region "are on the table."

To drive potentially thousands of Ukrainian troops out of Kursk region, Russian forces would need to capture trench by trench, unless the Kremlin can organize a powerful counterattack before Ukrainians complete their trench digging; but the window of opportunity is closing quickly, Forbes says.

Ukrainian attacks are blocking Russian reinforcements trying to reach the Kursk line. According to Estonian military expert and analyst Artur Rehi, Russian columns are encountering Ukrainian reconnaissance and sabotage groups, drones, and artillery.

“If and when it stabilizes, the Kursk salient could become another major front in Russia’s 29-month wider war on Ukraine,” the publication wrote.

On the 6th of August, the Governor of Russia’s Kursk Region declared a state of emergency due to Ukrainian forces reportedly entering the region.