The recognition of military actions in Belgorod marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Zelensky Acknowledges Ukrainian Military Operations in Russia's Belgorod Region
Zelensky Acknowledges Ukrainian Military Operations in Russia's Belgorod Region
Ukrainian President confirms troops are engaged in active operations on Russian territory.
Following ongoing tensions in the region, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has officially confirmed that Ukrainian forces are conducting operations within Russia's Belgorod region. In a recent address, Zelensky asserted, "We continue to carry out active operations in the border areas on enemy territory, and that is absolutely just - the war must return to where it came from." This marks the first time Zelensky has explicitly acknowledged Ukraine's military presence beyond its borders.
Zelensky’s remarks also touched upon the ongoing situation in the Kursk region, which Ukraine briefly captured during an earlier offensive but has since seen much of it recaptured by Russian forces. He emphasized that the primary aim of these operations is to safeguard Ukraine's border provinces of Sumy and Kharkiv, and to alleviate the pressure faced by Ukrainian troops on various sections of the extensive frontline, particularly in the eastern Donetsk region.
Previously, Russian military sources reported Ukrainian efforts to infiltrate Belgorod, claiming these were successfully thwarted. However, Zelensky's comments indicate a continued emphasis on Ukraine's military strategies aimed at counteracting Russian advances. He expressed gratitude to the Ukrainian army units involved, specifically praising the 225th Assault Regiment stationed in Belgorod by stating, "Well done, guys! I'm proud of each and every one who is fighting for Ukraine!"
Despite his acknowledgment, no explicit details on troop movements or operations were disclosed. Earlier this year, on March 18, Zelensky had indirectly hinted at operations occurring in Belgorod and addressed questions surrounding Ukrainian forces' actions there. Reports from Russian military bloggers indicated skirmishes around the villages of Demidovka and Prilesye, located just a short distance from the Ukrainian border.
According to the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW), there had been unverified claims regarding the consolidation of Ukrainian positions near these areas. Recent updates from Russia suggested that Ukrainian troops might be withdrawing from Demidovka.
While Ukraine's incursions into Belgorod are perceived to be more limited in scale compared to efforts in Kursk, they are thought to serve as a tactical maneuver, potentially prompting a Russian redistribution of troops from other operational fronts. Analysts speculate that Ukraine may be positioning itself for future peace negotiations that could involve territorial exchanges. However, there have been concerns raised over the effectiveness of these operations and the associated risks, given the high potential for casualties and ongoing logistical challenges for Ukraine's military.
Zelensky’s remarks also touched upon the ongoing situation in the Kursk region, which Ukraine briefly captured during an earlier offensive but has since seen much of it recaptured by Russian forces. He emphasized that the primary aim of these operations is to safeguard Ukraine's border provinces of Sumy and Kharkiv, and to alleviate the pressure faced by Ukrainian troops on various sections of the extensive frontline, particularly in the eastern Donetsk region.
Previously, Russian military sources reported Ukrainian efforts to infiltrate Belgorod, claiming these were successfully thwarted. However, Zelensky's comments indicate a continued emphasis on Ukraine's military strategies aimed at counteracting Russian advances. He expressed gratitude to the Ukrainian army units involved, specifically praising the 225th Assault Regiment stationed in Belgorod by stating, "Well done, guys! I'm proud of each and every one who is fighting for Ukraine!"
Despite his acknowledgment, no explicit details on troop movements or operations were disclosed. Earlier this year, on March 18, Zelensky had indirectly hinted at operations occurring in Belgorod and addressed questions surrounding Ukrainian forces' actions there. Reports from Russian military bloggers indicated skirmishes around the villages of Demidovka and Prilesye, located just a short distance from the Ukrainian border.
According to the US-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW), there had been unverified claims regarding the consolidation of Ukrainian positions near these areas. Recent updates from Russia suggested that Ukrainian troops might be withdrawing from Demidovka.
While Ukraine's incursions into Belgorod are perceived to be more limited in scale compared to efforts in Kursk, they are thought to serve as a tactical maneuver, potentially prompting a Russian redistribution of troops from other operational fronts. Analysts speculate that Ukraine may be positioning itself for future peace negotiations that could involve territorial exchanges. However, there have been concerns raised over the effectiveness of these operations and the associated risks, given the high potential for casualties and ongoing logistical challenges for Ukraine's military.
