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Zelenskyy Confirms Ukrainian Cross-Border Operation in Russia’s Belgorod Region
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![Photo of Vlad Litnarovych]( "Photo of Vlad Litnarovych")
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukrainian forces are conducting military operations in Russia’s Belgorod region as part of a broader strategy to disrupt Russian troop movements and prevent a new assault on Ukraine’s borders, speaking with the Associated Press on March 18.
Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is taking proactive steps to counter Russian troop buildups, particularly as Moscow prepares for fresh attempts to breach Ukraine’s defenses.
According to Zelenskyy, Russian forces are amassing troops near the Sumy region, likely in preparation for a large-scale attack.
Additionally, Russia is reinforcing its military presence near the Kharkiv region and the Zaporizhzhia front, forcing Ukraine’s defense forces to adopt more flexible tactics.
“There is an operation there. Some might think someone is retreating, while elsewhere, forces are advancing. These are our deliberate strategic moves as long as the enemy remains on our land,” Zelenskyy said.
Zelenskyy also confirmed that Ukrainian forces are actively engaged in a separate operation in Russia’s Kursk region, emphasizing that it will continue as long as necessary.
“Ukraine is carrying out its mission in the Kursk region, and our forces are there. They will remain there for as long as we need them. We have strengthened our positions in the east of our country,” he added.
Earlier, reports emerged that the Kremlin was intensifying a narrative accusing Ukrainian forces of committing “war crimes” in Russia’s Kursk region, potentially aiming to delay or derail discussions on a proposed 30-day ceasefire.
According to ISW, Russian leader Vladimir Putin and other high-ranking officials, along with state media and pro-Kremlin voices, have escalated claims regarding alleged Ukrainian military actions in Kursk. These accusations, which lack supporting evidence, coincide with ongoing negotiations about a temporary cessation of hostilities.
