President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of launching a major attack on Russian territory as a strategic move to bolster its negotiating position ahead of potential peace talks.
The Ukrainian forces penetrated the Russian border last week, surprising Russian defenses and capturing several settlements in the Kursk region.
Putin characterized the incursion as a desperate attempt by Ukraine, with the backing of Western allies, to gain leverage in potential negotiations and slow down Russian advances.
He dismissed the possibility of talks with Ukraine, accusing Kyiv of targeting civilians and nuclear facilities.
In response, Putin vowed to intensify Russian military operations along the entire 1,000-kilometer frontline, promising a “worthy response” to the Ukrainian attack. He also warned of further Ukrainian attempts to destabilize Russia’s western border.
Russian officials have framed the Ukrainian incursion as a ploy to demonstrate to Western supporters that Kyiv can still mount significant military operations amid growing pressure for peace negotiations.
Meanwhile, the attack has reportedly emboldened hardliners within Russia who oppose any ceasefire and advocate for a more aggressive approach towards Ukraine.
Despite recent territorial gains by Russian forces, the Ukrainian attack has managed to reclaim a comparable area.
While Russia claims to have recaptured territory from Ukraine, the actual situation on the ground remains complex and fluid.
