Zelensky emphasizes the need to reclaim territory and bolster defenses along Ukraine's borders.
Ukraine's Bold Moves: Zelensky Acknowledges Troop Operations in Belgorod
Ukraine's Bold Moves: Zelensky Acknowledges Troop Operations in Belgorod
Ukraine engages on Russian soil as President confirms offensive activities in Belgorod region.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has recently confirmed that Ukrainian forces are actively engaged in operations within Russia's Belgorod region, which borders Ukraine. In a statement made on Monday, he declared, "We continue to carry out active operations in the border areas on enemy territory, and that is absolutely just - war must return to where it came from." This marks the first time the Ukrainian president has openly acknowledged his troops' presence on Russian soil.
Zelensky's remarks also encompassed Ukraine's continued efforts in the Kursk region, where the military retains a foothold despite Russia's attempts to reclaim it. The President noted the strategic objective of these operations: to safeguard Ukraine's Sumy and Kharkiv regions and alleviate pressure on various fronts, particularly in the eastern Donetsk area.
Russian defense authorities had previously asserted that they thwarted Ukrainian advances into Belgorod, with clashes reported just a short distance from the border. Since the onset of the full-scale invasion led by Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2022, Moscow has maintained control over roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory.
In light of escalating conflict, Zelensky voiced condolences for victims of recent Russian missile strikes, which claimed numerous lives, including children, in his hometown of Kryvyi Rih. Following a briefing from General Oleksandr Syrskyi regarding the frontlines, the President commended the 225th Assault Regiment, stating, "Well done, guys! I'm proud of each and every one who is fighting for Ukraine!"
Previously, on March 18, Zelensky had hinted at Ukrainian operations in Belgorod, noting that there was an operation in progress, thereby indirectly acknowledging the presence of Ukrainian forces. Reports from Russian military bloggers suggested ongoing combat activity in Demidovka, a location only two kilometers from the border, while an analysis by the US-based Institute for the Study of War indicated recent advances by Ukrainian forces.
Despite rigorous strategies, analysts remain divided on the effectiveness of Ukraine's incursions into Russian territory, citing a myriad of challenges such as combat casualties and logistical hurdles. With discussions about potential future peace negotiations gaining traction, there is speculation that Ukraine hopes to exchange controlled Russian territories for its own lands occupied by Moscow.
Zelensky's remarks also encompassed Ukraine's continued efforts in the Kursk region, where the military retains a foothold despite Russia's attempts to reclaim it. The President noted the strategic objective of these operations: to safeguard Ukraine's Sumy and Kharkiv regions and alleviate pressure on various fronts, particularly in the eastern Donetsk area.
Russian defense authorities had previously asserted that they thwarted Ukrainian advances into Belgorod, with clashes reported just a short distance from the border. Since the onset of the full-scale invasion led by Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2022, Moscow has maintained control over roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory.
In light of escalating conflict, Zelensky voiced condolences for victims of recent Russian missile strikes, which claimed numerous lives, including children, in his hometown of Kryvyi Rih. Following a briefing from General Oleksandr Syrskyi regarding the frontlines, the President commended the 225th Assault Regiment, stating, "Well done, guys! I'm proud of each and every one who is fighting for Ukraine!"
Previously, on March 18, Zelensky had hinted at Ukrainian operations in Belgorod, noting that there was an operation in progress, thereby indirectly acknowledging the presence of Ukrainian forces. Reports from Russian military bloggers suggested ongoing combat activity in Demidovka, a location only two kilometers from the border, while an analysis by the US-based Institute for the Study of War indicated recent advances by Ukrainian forces.
Despite rigorous strategies, analysts remain divided on the effectiveness of Ukraine's incursions into Russian territory, citing a myriad of challenges such as combat casualties and logistical hurdles. With discussions about potential future peace negotiations gaining traction, there is speculation that Ukraine hopes to exchange controlled Russian territories for its own lands occupied by Moscow.
