Ukraine Advances in Kursk: A Real Dilemma for Putin

Ukraine targeted Russia's Kursk region with missiles and drones, claiming territorial gains. This action, seen as a bargaining move before negotiations, has puzzled President Biden and challenged Putin. Both sides report different battlefield outcomes, with ongoing tensions and U.S. officials seeking clarity on Kyiv's objectives.

Ukraine kept pounding the Russian border region of Kursk with missiles and drones on Wednesday, as Kyiv claimed further territorial gains in an incursion that U.S. President Joe Biden described as a 'real dilemma' for the Kremlin's leader. Four missiles launched by Ukraine were destroyed over Kursk, with the region under air raid alerts for most of the night, according to the regional acting governor.

Kyiv reported on Tuesday that it had taken control of 74 settlements in Kursk, following a significant attack launched over a week ago. This account contrasts sharply with Russia's statements that Ukrainian troops were halted and attacks repelled near the border.

Reuters has not independently verified the battlefield situation. Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed the attack was meant to improve Kyiv's negotiating position and delay Russia's frontline advance. This incursion has shifted the war dynamics, offering President Zelenskiy significant gains after months of Russian advances. Biden, in his first detailed comments, mentioned the U.S. remains in constant contact with Kyiv, though it was not involved in the operation planning.