On Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky updated the nation on his military’s advance into Russia’s Kursk Oblast, highlighting efforts to establish “a buffer zone” within the territory.
This announcement came after Ukrainian forces reportedly destroyed a second bridge in the Kursk region. The latest bridge, located over the Seym River near Zvannoye, was taken out just two days after another bridge was destroyed in the Glushkovsky district.
Ukraine began its operation in Kursk Oblast earlier this month, as the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, which started with Russia’s invasion in February 2022. Thousands of residents have evacuated from Kursk and neighboring areas as clashes escalate in southwestern Russia, following Ukraine’s unexpected cross-border actions.
During his evening address, Zelensky stated, “Our main goal in these defensive operations is to diminish Russian military capabilities as much as possible.” He reiterated, “This includes creating a buffer zone within the aggressor’s territory—specifically in Kursk Oblast.”
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Zelensky also mentioned achieving “significant results in eliminating Russian equipment near Toretsk,” a settlement in Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast that has faced heavy Russian attacks recently.
Looking ahead, the Ukrainian leader stressed that the upcoming weeks are vital for building diplomatic partnerships with supporters across Europe, America, and the Global South. “We have broadened our alliances and will continue to do so to achieve a fair resolution to this war. It’s crucial for Ukraine to emerge from this fall even stronger,” he declared.
The destruction of the bridge near Zvannoye aims to hamper Russia’s logistical capabilities. Reports from Russian news sources indicate that the strike was executed using U.S.-supplied HIMARS missiles.
Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleschuk shared a video on Telegram of the bridge attack, showcasing smoke billowing from the wreckage. He exclaimed, “That’s one less bridge! Our air force is persistently targeting the enemy’s logistics through precise aerial strikes, significantly influencing the battlefield. Thanks to our pilots for their dedication and effectiveness!”