Ukraine has already lost 40 per cent of the territory it occupied in Russia's Kursk Oblast in a major offensive in August this year, news agency Reuters reported citing Kyiv military sources on Saturday (Nov 23). Owing to a massive wave of Russia's counter-offensive, Kyiv has faced a major setback in the region.&nbsp;

Russia is now said to have prepared about 60,000 men to take Kursk back in its entirety, reportedly involving troops from North Korea.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwifnoCTx_KJAxUCs1YBHS9jHgoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/there-is-no-countermeasure-putin-hails-russias-oreshnik-missile-orders-serial-production-778447" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/there-is-no-countermeasure-putin-hails-russias-oreshnik-missile-orders-serial-production-778447&amp;ved=2ahUKEwifnoCTx_KJAxUCs1YBHS9jHgoQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">‘There is no countermeasure,’ Putin hails Russia’s Oreshnik missile; orders serial production</a>

"At most, we controlled about 1,376 square kilometres (531 square miles), now of course this territory is smaller. The enemy is increasing its counterattacks," Reuters quoted the source as saying.&nbsp;"Now we control approximately 800 square kilometres (309 square miles). We will hold this territory for as long as is militarily appropriate."

The Kursk offensive by Ukraine was the first territorial incursion Russia witnessed since the Second World War. The biggest objective of the offensive was to thwart Russian advances in eastern Ukraine and force Russia to pull troops back to focus on defending its own territories.

However, despite Ukrainian forces managing to occupy a considerable chunk of Russian territory in Kursk, Moscow's&nbsp;troops continued making advances in Ukraine.

<h2>Russia's rapid advances in eastern Ukraine</h2>

Reuters quoted the source as saying that the Ukrainian position in&nbsp;the Kurakhove region was the most volatile, where Russian forces were making advances of&nbsp;200-300 meters (yards) a day and had managed to break through in some areas with armoured vehicles backed by anti-drone defences.

The source said that there are over half a million Russian troops currently fighting in Ukraine, with Russia expected to reinforce them with almost 200,000 additional troops in the coming days. Russia has not confirmed these numbers so far.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

Ukraine has already lost 40 per cent of the territory it occupied in Russia's Kursk Oblast in a major offensive in August this year, news agency Reuters reported citing Kyiv military sources on Saturday (Nov 23).

Ukraine has already lost 40 per cent of the territory it occupied in Russia's Kursk Oblast in a major offensive in August this year, news agency Reuters reported citing Kyiv military sources on Saturday (Nov 23). Owing to a massive wave of Russia's counter-offensive, Kyiv has faced a major setback in the region. Russia is now said to have prepared about 60,000 men to take Kursk back in its entirety, reportedly involving troops from North Korea. Also read: ‘There is no countermeasure,’ Putin hails Russia’s Oreshnik missile; orders serial production "At most, we controlled about 1,376 square kilometres (531 square miles), now of course this territory is smaller. The enemy is increasing its counterattacks," Reuters quoted the source as saying. "Now we control approximately 800 square kilometres (309 square miles). We will hold this territory for as long as is militarily appropriate." The Kursk offensive by Ukraine was the first territorial incursion Russia witnessed since the Second World War. The biggest objective of the offensive was to thwart Russian advances in eastern Ukraine and force Russia to pull troops back to focus on defending its own territories. However, despite Ukrainian forces managing to occupy a considerable chunk of Russian territory in Kursk, Moscow's troops continued making advances in Ukraine. Russia's rapid advances in eastern Ukraine Reuters quoted the source as saying that the Ukrainian position in the Kurakhove region was the most volatile, where Russian forces were making advances of 200-300 meters (yards) a day and had managed to break through in some areas with armoured vehicles backed by anti-drone defences. The source said that there are over half a million Russian troops currently fighting in Ukraine, with Russia expected to reinforce them with almost 200,000 additional troops in the coming days. Russia has not confirmed these numbers so far. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

'Enemy is increasing counterattacks,' Ukraine loses 40% of Russia's Kursk: Report

Russia knew about Ukraine’s plan to launch the Kursk offensive for months and had been preparing to prevent it, purported Russian documents seized by the Ukrainian army show. The Guardian reported citing the documents that Moscow had been worried about the low morale of the Russian troops on the frontlines. These concerns were apparently exacerbated after a Russian soldier died by suicide, stressed from “prolonged” service in the army.

The purported documents showed that the Kremlin had instructed Russian commanders to ensure soldiers watch enough state-backed media every day for the betterment of their “psychological condition.”

<h2>Are the documents real?</h2>

Ukraine claims to have seized the documents from abandoned Russian posts in the Kursk region. However, the Guardian clarified it couldn’t verify the authenticity of the papers. But, the documents had the hallmarks of genuine Russian army communications.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi12YeEktGIAxWFxDgGHez2OnMQxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-acknowleges-russias-counter-offensive-in-kursk-but-invasion-going-to-plan-758153" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-acknowleges-russias-counter-offensive-in-kursk-but-invasion-going-to-plan-758153&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi12YeEktGIAxWFxDgGHez2OnMQxfQBKAB6BAgTEAE">Ukraine acknowledges Russia's counter-offensive in Kursk, says its invasion 'going to plan'</a>

Ukrainian troops seized documents affiliated with the Russian interior ministry and spy agency FSB.

Some documents are dated just six weeks before Ukraine launched its incursion into the Kursk region on 6 August. According to the report, the documents most likely came from Russia’s 488th Guards Motorised Rifle Regiment.

<h2>What documents said about the Ukrainian offensive?</h2>

One entry made on January 4 revealed that Russia knew about the “potential for a breakthrough at the state border” by Ukrainian armed groups. Moscow had allegedly asked the army to increase training and vigilance to be in a position to thwart any such attack.

On February 19, the Russian commanders were again warned of “a rapid push from the Sumy region into Russian territory, up to a depth of 80km [50 miles], to establish a four-day ‘corridor’ ahead of the arrival of the main Ukrainian army units on armoured vehicles”.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi12YeEktGIAxWFxDgGHez2OnMQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-reclaims-kursk-villages-ukrainian-troops-on-the-backfoot-across-eastern-front-759914" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-reclaims-kursk-villages-ukrainian-troops-on-the-backfoot-across-eastern-front-759914&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi12YeEktGIAxWFxDgGHez2OnMQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Russia Reclaims Kursk Villages, Ukrainian Troops on the Backfoot Across Eastern Front</a>

Then in March, the units on the frontlines were asked to boost defences and to organise additional exercises for the leadership of units and strongpoints regarding the proper organisation of defences” in preparation for a Ukrainian cross-border attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia knew about Ukraine’s plan to launch the Kursk offensive for months and had been preparing to prevent it, purported Russian documents seized by the Ukrainian army show.

Russia knew about Ukraine’s plan to launch the Kursk offensive for months and had been preparing to prevent it, purported Russian documents seized by the Ukrainian army show. The Guardian reported citing the documents that Moscow had been worried about the low morale of the Russian troops on the frontlines. These concerns were apparently exacerbated after a Russian soldier died by suicide, stressed from “prolonged” service in the army. The purported documents showed that the Kremlin had instructed Russian commanders to ensure soldiers watch enough state-backed media every day for the betterment of their “psychological condition.” Are the documents real? Ukraine claims to have seized the documents from abandoned Russian posts in the Kursk region. However, the Guardian clarified it couldn’t verify the authenticity of the papers. But, the documents had the hallmarks of genuine Russian army communications. Also read: Ukraine acknowledges Russia's counter-offensive in Kursk, says its invasion 'going to plan' Ukrainian troops seized documents affiliated with the Russian interior ministry and spy agency FSB. Some documents are dated just six weeks before Ukraine launched its incursion into the Kursk region on 6 August. According to the report, the documents most likely came from Russia’s 488th Guards Motorised Rifle Regiment. What documents said about the Ukrainian offensive? One entry made on January 4 revealed that Russia knew about the “potential for a breakthrough at the state border” by Ukrainian armed groups. Moscow had allegedly asked the army to increase training and vigilance to be in a position to thwart any such attack. On February 19, the Russian commanders were again warned of “a rapid push from the Sumy region into Russian territory, up to a depth of 80km [50 miles], to establish a four-day ‘corridor’ ahead of the arrival of the main Ukrainian army units on armoured vehicles”. Also read: Russia Reclaims Kursk Villages, Ukrainian Troops on the Backfoot Across Eastern Front Then in March, the units on the frontlines were asked to boost defences and to organise additional exercises for the leadership of units and strongpoints regarding the proper organisation of defences” in preparation for a Ukrainian cross-border attack. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Russia knew about Ukraine’s Kursk plans, was preparing for months: Report

Russia said Thursday its army had recaptured 10 settlements in its&nbsp;Kursk&nbsp;border region, where Ukraine last month launched a major cross-border incursion. &nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also conceded Russia had launched its own counterattack in the region but insisted that the shock incursion was still going to plan.

"Units of the 'North' group of troops liberated 10 settlements within two days," Russia's defence ministry said in a statement posted on its Telegram channel.

Ukraine claimed at the end of August to have taken control of some 100 Russian settlements and almost 1,300 square kilometres (500 square miles) of territory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjD5Kv8s72IAxU8Q2cHHbMLC3MQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-begins-counter-offensive-pushes-back-ukrainian-troops-in-some-regions-of-kursk-757869" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-begins-counter-offensive-pushes-back-ukrainian-troops-in-some-regions-of-kursk-757869&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjD5Kv8s72IAxU8Q2cHHbMLC3MQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Russia begins counter-offensive, pushes back Ukrainian troops in some regions of Kursk</a>

The surprise offensive, launched August 6, is the first time a foreign army has taken control of parts of Russia since World War II.

"The Russians have launched counter-offensive actions," Zelensky said at a press conference in Kyiv on Thursday.

Watch:&nbsp;Can Zelensky win with Kursk?

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He did not provide details on the extent of Russian operations, but said the incursion was "going in line with our Ukrainian plan".

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Russia said Thursday its army had recaptured 10 settlements in its Kursk border region, where Ukraine last month launched a major cross-border incursion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also conceded Russia had launched its own counterattack in the region but insisted that the shock incursion was still going to plan.

Russia said Thursday its army had recaptured 10 settlements in its Kursk border region, where Ukraine last month launched a major cross-border incursion. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also conceded Russia had launched its own counterattack in the region but insisted that the shock incursion was still going to plan. "Units of the 'North' group of troops liberated 10 settlements within two days," Russia's defence ministry said in a statement posted on its Telegram channel. Ukraine claimed at the end of August to have taken control of some 100 Russian settlements and almost 1,300 square kilometres (500 square miles) of territory. Also read: Russia begins counter-offensive, pushes back Ukrainian troops in some regions of Kursk The surprise offensive, launched August 6, is the first time a foreign army has taken control of parts of Russia since World War II. "The Russians have launched counter-offensive actions," Zelensky said at a press conference in Kyiv on Thursday. Watch: Can Zelensky win with Kursk? × He did not provide details on the extent of Russian operations, but said the incursion was "going in line with our Ukrainian plan". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine acknowledges Russia's counter-offensive in Kursk, says its invasion 'going to plan'

Russia is fast pressing ahead with its counter-offensive near the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk even as Ukraine’s offensive in Russia's Kursk starts losing its pace. Notably, Pokrovsk is an essential reinforcement point for Ukraine’s troops and a Russian invasion of the city may cripple their supplies.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky conceded on Wednesday (Aug 28) and said,&nbsp;“The situation is extremely difficult” in Pokrovsk.

BBC quoted Ukrainian military expert Mykhaylo Zhyrokhov as saying, “if we lose Pokrovsk, the entire front line will crumble."

Moscow looks hell-bent on taking over Pokrovsk and it has already deployed one-third of its Central Army Group, or about 30,000 troops, on the mission.

Not just that, Russian forces are believed to have launched parallel assaults on the town of Selidove, just south of Novohrodivka, and other areas of the Donetsk region nearby.

On Friday (Aug 30), Russian forces rained bombs on the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, resulting in the death of at least six civilians, including a child in a playground. This led the authorities to declare a day of mourning on Saturday.

A fresh attack on Saturday (Aug 31) further killed two more people in a village in the&nbsp;Kharkiv region and left at least 10 people injured.

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Governor Oleh Synehubov claimed Russian forces hit the village of Cherkaska Lozova with guided bombs. "Two women died," he said. "One was pulled from the rubble, the other died in an ambulance."

Meanwhile, Russia also claimed that its Belgorod city was targeted by Ukraine late Friday.

Vyacheslav Gladkov, the local governor, claimed five people were killed and 46 injured in the Ukrainian attack.

Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky says there was a need to strengthen command level

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"Once again we call on all responsible governments and relevant international structures to strongly condemn this brutal terrorist attack and publicly distance themselves from the Kyiv regime and its Western curators who commit such crimes," Russia’s foreign ministry said Saturday.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia is fast pressing ahead with its counter-offensive near the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk even as Ukraine’s offensive in Russia's Kursk starts losing its pace.

Russia is fast pressing ahead with its counter-offensive near the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk even as Ukraine’s offensive in Russia's Kursk starts losing its pace. Notably, Pokrovsk is an essential reinforcement point for Ukraine’s troops and a Russian invasion of the city may cripple their supplies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky conceded on Wednesday (Aug 28) and said, “The situation is extremely difficult” in Pokrovsk. BBC quoted Ukrainian military expert Mykhaylo Zhyrokhov as saying, “if we lose Pokrovsk, the entire front line will crumble." Moscow looks hell-bent on taking over Pokrovsk and it has already deployed one-third of its Central Army Group, or about 30,000 troops, on the mission. Not just that, Russian forces are believed to have launched parallel assaults on the town of Selidove, just south of Novohrodivka, and other areas of the Donetsk region nearby. On Friday (Aug 30), Russian forces rained bombs on the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, resulting in the death of at least six civilians, including a child in a playground. This led the authorities to declare a day of mourning on Saturday. A fresh attack on Saturday (Aug 31) further killed two more people in a village in the Kharkiv region and left at least 10 people injured. Also read: North Korea`s Kim Jong Un receives new consignment of horses from Russia Governor Oleh Synehubov claimed Russian forces hit the village of Cherkaska Lozova with guided bombs. "Two women died," he said. "One was pulled from the rubble, the other died in an ambulance." Meanwhile, Russia also claimed that its Belgorod city was targeted by Ukraine late Friday. Vyacheslav Gladkov, the local governor, claimed five people were killed and 46 injured in the Ukrainian attack. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Zelensky says there was a need to strengthen command level × "Once again we call on all responsible governments and relevant international structures to strongly condemn this brutal terrorist attack and publicly distance themselves from the Kyiv regime and its Western curators who commit such crimes," Russia’s foreign ministry said Saturday. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

‘Front line will crumble,’ Ukrainian offensive falters as Russia’s Pokrovsk invasion gains momentum

Ukraine announced on Sunday that it had targeted a second crucial bridge in Russia's Kursk region, aiming to disrupt Moscow's supply lines as Kyiv's ongoing incursion into Russian territory continued into its second week. Meanwhile, Russia intensified its efforts in eastern Ukraine, claiming to have taken control of another village close to the Ukrainian-held logistics centre of Pokrovsk.

"One more bridge down," stated Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk on Telegram, sharing aerial footage of an explosion ripping through a bridge near Zvannoye, Russia. "The Air Force is persistently undermining the enemy's logistics through precise air strikes," he added.

While the exact date and time of the strike were not disclosed, Russian military bloggers circulated images from the scene that appeared similar to another incident reported on Saturday.

Earlier, on Friday, Ukraine declared it had destroyed a bridge in the nearby town of Glushkovo, both of which span the Seym River, which runs through the region. The attacks on these bridges have significantly limited Russia's crossing points over the river in this area.

On Sunday, Russia claimed that its forces had captured Svyrydonivka, a frontline village approximately 15 kilometres (9 miles) from Pokrovsk. Pokrovsk, a crucial junction for roadways supplying Ukrainian forces and towns across the eastern front, has long been a target for Russian troops.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-and-ukraine-were-close-to-ceasefire-talks-until-this-happened-751074">Russia and Ukraine were close to ceasefire talks until this happened...</a>

"Through active operations, units of the Centre grouping of troops have liberated the village of Sviridonovka," stated the Russian defence ministry, using the Russian name for the settlement. The ministry also reported ongoing efforts to push back Ukrainian forces near several other villages. According to Russian authorities, over 120,000 people have fled the region since the fighting began.

Early Sunday, Ukrainian drones targeted an oil storage facility in Russia's southern Rostov region, igniting a large fire, though no injuries were reported. "Air defences in the southeast of the Rostov region thwarted a drone attack. Debris fell onto industrial storage facilities in Proletarsk, causing a diesel fuel fire," Governor Vasily Golubev posted on Telegram.

"At 05:35 (0235 GMT), firefighting efforts at the industrial site in Proletarsk were paused due to a second drone strike," he mentioned in a later update.

On August 6, Kyiv launched its most significant attack on Russian soil since the Kremlin initiated its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, sending troops and armored vehicles across the border.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine announced on Sunday that it had targeted a second crucial bridge in Russia's Kursk region, aiming to disrupt Moscow's supply lines as Kyiv's ongoing incursion into Russian territory continued into its second week.

Ukraine announced on Sunday that it had targeted a second crucial bridge in Russia's Kursk region, aiming to disrupt Moscow's supply lines as Kyiv's ongoing incursion into Russian territory continued into its second week. Meanwhile, Russia intensified its efforts in eastern Ukraine, claiming to have taken control of another village close to the Ukrainian-held logistics centre of Pokrovsk. "One more bridge down," stated Ukrainian Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk on Telegram, sharing aerial footage of an explosion ripping through a bridge near Zvannoye, Russia. "The Air Force is persistently undermining the enemy's logistics through precise air strikes," he added. While the exact date and time of the strike were not disclosed, Russian military bloggers circulated images from the scene that appeared similar to another incident reported on Saturday. Earlier, on Friday, Ukraine declared it had destroyed a bridge in the nearby town of Glushkovo, both of which span the Seym River, which runs through the region. The attacks on these bridges have significantly limited Russia's crossing points over the river in this area. On Sunday, Russia claimed that its forces had captured Svyrydonivka, a frontline village approximately 15 kilometres (9 miles) from Pokrovsk. Pokrovsk, a crucial junction for roadways supplying Ukrainian forces and towns across the eastern front, has long been a target for Russian troops. Also read: Russia and Ukraine were close to ceasefire talks until this happened... "Through active operations, units of the Centre grouping of troops have liberated the village of Sviridonovka," stated the Russian defence ministry, using the Russian name for the settlement. The ministry also reported ongoing efforts to push back Ukrainian forces near several other villages. According to Russian authorities, over 120,000 people have fled the region since the fighting began. Early Sunday, Ukrainian drones targeted an oil storage facility in Russia's southern Rostov region, igniting a large fire, though no injuries were reported. "Air defences in the southeast of the Rostov region thwarted a drone attack. Debris fell onto industrial storage facilities in Proletarsk, causing a diesel fuel fire," Governor Vasily Golubev posted on Telegram. "At 05:35 (0235 GMT), firefighting efforts at the industrial site in Proletarsk were paused due to a second drone strike," he mentioned in a later update. On August 6, Kyiv launched its most significant attack on Russian soil since the Kremlin initiated its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, sending troops and armored vehicles across the border. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine destroys second key bridge in Kursk; Russia captures another Ukrainian village

New details have emerged around Ukraine’s ongoing offensive deep inside Russian territory, throwing light on the extent of unpreparedness of President Vladimir Putin’s regime. The cross-border attack, which began on August 6, caught Russian soldiers off guard and some of them were having coffee in the woods at that moment, according to an account of a Ukrainian soldier published by the Financial Times.

The soldier, identified as Volodymyr, was part of a unit operating a United States-provided Stryker armoured fighting vehicle.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjcyti1m_eHAxWYRmwGHVLBEXgQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-what-is-kyivs-daring-white-triangle-invasion-749673" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-what-is-kyivs-daring-white-triangle-invasion-749673&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjcyti1m_eHAxWYRmwGHVLBEXgQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Ukraine war: What is Kyiv`s daring `White Triangle` invasion?</a>

After their group entered the Kursk region on August 6, they soon encountered Russian soldiers "sitting in the forest, drinking coffee at a table," he claimed. "Then our Stryker drives right into their table," Volodymyr was quoted as saying by the Financial Times.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjcyti1m_eHAxWYRmwGHVLBEXgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-strikes-russia-with-drones-says-it-is-advancing-deeper-750022" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-strikes-russia-with-drones-says-it-is-advancing-deeper-750022&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjcyti1m_eHAxWYRmwGHVLBEXgQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Ukraine strikes Russia with drones, says it is advancing deeper</a>

He added all of them were unarmed and were quickly eliminated.

"We killed many of them on the first day. Because they were unarmed and didn't expect us," he added. Soon after, dozens of unarmed Russian troops surrendered.

Financial Times reported that the interview took place when Volodymyr’s unit returned to Ukraine on Sunday (Aug 11). The Ukrainian soldier further said that their Stryker vehicle was hit by the enemy’s rocket-propelled grenade on Friday (Aug 9), which gave the driver a concussion.

<h2>Russia caught off guard?</h2>

The sudden Ukrainian offensive has laid bare the embarrassing level of unpreparedness of Russian troops as well as Moscow’s intelligence apparatus. As of Monday (Aug 12), Ukrainian troops had already occupied 1,000 square kilometres, or about 380 square miles, of Russian soil, as well as 74 villages and towns. Putin has vowed that Ukraine would receive a "worthy response."

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Today at the Staff meeting, I received a report from Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi. Our key defense directions at the frontline: Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and others. These areas are currently facing the most intense Russian assaults and are receiving our utmost defensive attention.… <a href="https://t.co/uL3Oe4wL0n">pic.twitter.com/uL3Oe4wL0n</a>
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1824072739478536223?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Aug 15) also announced the “liberation” of the city of Sudzha from Russian forces. “A Ukrainian military commandant’s office is being established there,” Zelensky said, adding that “several other settlements have also been liberated. In total, more than eighty.”

Earlier, the head of Ukraine’s armed forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, said&nbsp;his forces were still advancing and had taken up to 1.5 km (0.93 miles) in the last 24 hours. He told Zelensky that Ukrainian forces had penetrated 35 km deep into Russia's Kursk since the launch of the Aug 6 incusion.

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

New details have emerged around Ukraine’s ongoing offensive deep inside Russian territory, throwing light on the extent of unpreparedness of President Vladimir Putin’s regime.

New details have emerged around Ukraine’s ongoing offensive deep inside Russian territory, throwing light on the extent of unpreparedness of President Vladimir Putin’s regime. The cross-border attack, which began on August 6, caught Russian soldiers off guard and some of them were having coffee in the woods at that moment, according to an account of a Ukrainian soldier published by the Financial Times. The soldier, identified as Volodymyr, was part of a unit operating a United States-provided Stryker armoured fighting vehicle. Also read: Ukraine war: What is Kyiv`s daring `White Triangle` invasion? After their group entered the Kursk region on August 6, they soon encountered Russian soldiers "sitting in the forest, drinking coffee at a table," he claimed. "Then our Stryker drives right into their table," Volodymyr was quoted as saying by the Financial Times. Also read: Ukraine strikes Russia with drones, says it is advancing deeper He added all of them were unarmed and were quickly eliminated. "We killed many of them on the first day. Because they were unarmed and didn't expect us," he added. Soon after, dozens of unarmed Russian troops surrendered. Financial Times reported that the interview took place when Volodymyr’s unit returned to Ukraine on Sunday (Aug 11). The Ukrainian soldier further said that their Stryker vehicle was hit by the enemy’s rocket-propelled grenade on Friday (Aug 9), which gave the driver a concussion. Russia caught off guard? The sudden Ukrainian offensive has laid bare the embarrassing level of unpreparedness of Russian troops as well as Moscow’s intelligence apparatus. As of Monday (Aug 12), Ukrainian troops had already occupied 1,000 square kilometres, or about 380 square miles, of Russian soil, as well as 74 villages and towns. Putin has vowed that Ukraine would receive a "worthy response." Today at the Staff meeting, I received a report from Commander-in-Chief Syrskyi. Our key defense directions at the frontline: Toretsk, Pokrovsk, and others. These areas are currently facing the most intense Russian assaults and are receiving our utmost defensive attention.… pic.twitter.com/uL3Oe4wL0n — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) August 15, 2024 × Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday (Aug 15) also announced the “liberation” of the city of Sudzha from Russian forces. “A Ukrainian military commandant’s office is being established there,” Zelensky said, adding that “several other settlements have also been liberated. In total, more than eighty.” Earlier, the head of Ukraine’s armed forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, said his forces were still advancing and had taken up to 1.5 km (0.93 miles) in the last 24 hours. He told Zelensky that Ukrainian forces had penetrated 35 km deep into Russia's Kursk since the launch of the Aug 6 incusion. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

‘Russians were unarmed, having coffee,’ Ukrainian soldier recounts moment they invaded Kursk

A Ukrainian security official said on Sunday (Aug 11) that the aim of the military's offensive in Russia's Kursk region was to stabilise the situation in Russia.

A Ukrainian security official said on Sunday (Aug 11) that the aim of the military's offensive in Russia's Kursk region was to stabilise the situation in Russia. Speaking to the news agency AFP, the official said, "The aim is to stretch the positions of the enemy, to inflict maximum losses and to destabilise the situation in Russia as they are unable to protect their own border." Last Tuesday, Ukrainian forces pierced deep into the Kursk border region. The assault appeared to catch the Kremlin off guard, with the Russian Army rushing in reserve troops, tanks, aviation, artillery and drones in a bid to quash it. Also read | Ukraine war: Russia evacuates over 76,000 in Kursk region; Zelensky acknowledges operation This was Ukraine's largest incursion into Russian territory since the start of the war in February 2022, leaving southwestern parts of Russia vulnerable before reinforcement started arriving. Kyiv launched this operation from the Sumy region. Russian authorities rushed to evacuate thousands of residents in Kursk and announced a local state of emergency in the region. Zelensky acknowledges offensive Ukraine had been tightlipped about the operation until President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged that his country's forces were fighting in Kursk. In his nightly video address on Saturday, President Zelensky said that the operation was part of Kyiv's drive to restore justice following the Russian invasion. Zelensky added he had discussed the operation with top Ukrainian commander Oleksandr Syrskyi. Meanwhile, the Sumy region also came under retaliatory fire, and authorities there planned to evacuate some 20,000 people from the border zone. Also watch | Ukraine war: Russian jets bomb own territory in desperate defence × Zelensky said on Sunday Russia had launched nearly 2,000 cross-border strikes on Sumy from Kursk and that such strikes deserved a Ukrainian response. "Artillery, mortars, drones. We also record missile strikes, and each such strike deserves a fair response," the Ukrainian leader said. Fire breaks out at nuclear plant In the latest news from the ongoing war, a fire broke out at the now-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine, with both countries reporting no sign of elevated radiation. The United Nations (UN) International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said that its experts saw strong, dark smoke coming from the northern area of the plant following multiple explosions. It was not yet known what led to the fire. A report by the news agency Reuters said that Zelensky accused Russia of lighting the fire which he said was visible from the Kyiv-held city of Nikopol, which looks out onto the Russian-held plant. Meanwhile, a Russian-installed official in the occupied south of Ukraine accused Kyiv's forces of causing the fire by shelling the nearby city of Enerhodar. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine war: Aim of Kursk offensive is to destabilise situation in Russia, says Kyiv

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