What's happened
As of August 25, 2024, Ukraine's military operations in Russia's Kursk region have intensified, with significant territorial gains reported. Meanwhile, Russian forces continue to retaliate with missile strikes across Ukraine, leading to civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. The conflict remains dynamic, with both sides adjusting strategies amid ongoing hostilities.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Al Jazeera, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the aim of the incursion was to establish a buffer zone, stating, 'Our proactive defense is the most effective counter to Russian terror.' Meanwhile, The Independent highlights the dire situation in the Donbas region, where Russian forces are advancing on key cities like Pokrovsk, which is crucial for Ukrainian logistics. The Independent also notes that the incursion has allowed Ukraine to capture a significant number of Russian prisoners, which could be leveraged for future exchanges. This contrast in focus illustrates the multifaceted nature of the conflict, with Ukraine seeking to disrupt Russian operations while facing intense pressure on its eastern front.
How we got here
The conflict escalated significantly on August 6, 2024, when Ukraine launched a surprise incursion into Russia's Kursk region. This marked the first major offensive into Russian territory since the war began in 2022, aiming to create a buffer zone and disrupt Russian military operations.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy is a Ukrainian politician, actor and comedian who is the 6th and current president of Ukraine, serving since May 2019.
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