Ukrainian Offensive in Kursk Region Concludes Amidst Heavy Losses**

Following a fierce and rapid offensive, Ukrainian troops have retreated from the Kursk region of Russia, reducing their controlled territory from 500 square miles to just 30 square miles as Russian forces press in from all sides.**

 

Ukrainian forces have largely abandoned their positions in the Kursk region of Russia, marking a stark conclusion to an aggressive campaign that had aimed to surprise the Kremlin last summer with its swiftness. Soldiers on the front lines described a withdrawal process that varied between organized and chaotic, as Russian troops advanced through their defenses, forcing them back to a reduced area along the border.

One platoon leader, known only by the call sign Boroda, provided insight into the challenging circumstances of the retreat. They faced relentless attacks, with all vehicles destroyed and ammunition nearly depleted. This urgency left them with little choice but to flee as Russian soldiers encroached aggressively from multiple directions. Just days ago, Boroda’s unit completed a grueling 12-mile trek to the Ukrainian frontier, only to find that the territory they had occupied was soon overtaken by Russian forces.

Initially, during the height of the offensive, Ukrainian troops had gained control over approximately 500 square miles of Russian land. However, according to military expert Pasi Paroinen from the Finland-based Black Bird Group, the Ukrainians are now holding onto a mere 30 square miles, emphasizing the significant shift in territorial control.