Russia Advances in Eastern Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict

Russia has advanced by 1,000 square kilometers in eastern Ukraine, while a Ukrainian incursion into Russia's Kursk region has ruled out ceasefire talks. Russia's forces aim to capture key areas in Donbas. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy asserts that Kyiv's strikes intend to halt Russian cross-border movements.

Russia has claimed a significant advance in eastern Ukraine, covering about 1,000 square kilometers in August and September, even as Ukrainian forces made an incursion into Russia's Kursk region. This movement has effectively quashed any hopes for ceasefire talks with Kyiv.

Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu stated that the Ukrainian incursion aimed to strengthen Kyiv's negotiating position but noted that Russian forces have expedited their offensive in the Donbas region, capturing close to 1,000 square kilometers over recent months.

Amidst the stalemated frontlines, President Zelenskiy of Ukraine affirmed that Kyiv's forces were holding their ground in the east and reiterated that their operations aimed to prevent Russian forces from advancing across the border.

(With inputs from agencies.)