Ukraine's Bold Move: Major Gains in Kursk Amid Rising Tensions

Ukraine's largest cross-border assault on Russia's Kursk region has secured control of 74 settlements, advancing 1-3 km in 24 hours. In contrast, Russia claims to have repelled the attacks. Ukraine has captured Russian prisoners for potential swap, with President Zelenskiy citing expanding gains and readiness for next operational steps.

Ukraine's boldest cross-border offensive to date has claimed control of 74 settlements in Russia's Kursk region, marking its most significant battlefield success since 2022. Advancing 1-3 km in the last 24 hours, Ukrainian forces have blindsided Moscow with a strategic operation involving thousands of troops.

In a conflicting account, Russia maintains its defense lines held strong, with Major General Apti Alaudinov stating Ukrainian forces had been halted and the defense ministry claiming repelled attacks. Despite the ongoing battle, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced the capture of Russian POWs who may be exchanged for Ukrainian fighters, dubbing it an expanding 'exchange fund'.

Governor Alexei Smirnov of Kursk urged residents for patience amidst the escalating conflict, while Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed retaliatory actions against Ukraine, accusing Western nations of facilitating the incursion. The United States described the operation as defensive and consistent with its policy but denied involvement in the planning.

(With inputs from agencies.)