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The Governor of Russia’s Belgorod region has declared a state of emergency as Ukrainian forces continue to make significant advances in the nearby Kursk region.

Let’s bring you up to speed: Ukrainian forces have launched a major offensive in the Kursk region, capturing roughly 74 settlements and advancing into Russian territory. This surprise attack, the largest cross-border operation by Ukraine, has disrupted Russian logistics and troop movements. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces have also intensified artillery and drone strikes on the Belgorod region, causing significant damage to civilian infrastructure and resulting in Russian claims of “numerous” casualties.

What the Governor is saying: The Governor of Russia’s Belgorod region, Vyacheslav Gladkov, said, “The situation in the Belgorod region continues to be extremely difficult and tense. Houses are destroyed. Civilians died and were injured.” The Governor continued, “A state of emergency will be introduced on the regional level, followed by a request to the governmental commission to declare a federal state of emergency.”

Zelensky speaks on incursion: In a brief statement last night, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensnky said, “Hundreds of Russian servicemen have already surrendered, and all of them will receive humane treatment – they did not experience such treatment even in their own Russian army. We have proven once again that we, Ukrainians, are capable of achieving our goals in any situation – capable of defending our interests and our independence.”  

What’s the motive of the incursion?: Ukrainian officials say the incursion is aimed at pushing back Russian forces who frequently use their territory to launch attacks on Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Georgiy Tykhy noted, “Unlike Russia, Ukraine does not need other people’s property. Ukraine is not interested in taking the territory of the Kursk region, but we want to protect the lives of our people.”