Zelenskyy Breaks Silence on Offensive, Russia Faces New Escalation

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indirectly acknowledged Ukraine’s recent military actions within Russia's Kursk region, emphasizing efforts to push the conflict into Russian territory. The situation has led to evacuations on the Russian side and increased calls for aid from Ukraine's Western allies. Tensions remain high, with both sides trading accusations over recent incidents.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has indirectly acknowledged Ukraine's surprising military incursions within Russia's Kursk border region, aiming to shift the war onto the aggressor's territory. This statement came during his nightly address on Saturday, breaking the government's silence.

In a significant development, a fire near the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Power Plant was reported by Ukrainian officials, who labeled it a Russian provocation. Efforts continued to evacuate civilians from Russia's border areas, as Ukrainian military operations extended into the sixth day, marking the largest such assault since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

The exact objectives of Ukraine's operations remain unclear, but experts suggest it's to divert Russian forces from the fierce battles in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region. Meanwhile, accusations fly, with Russian officials condemning Ukraine's actions as senseless and terroristic, and both sides blaming each other for the Zaporizhzhia fire incident. The conflict escalates amidst continued drone attacks and reports of North Korean missile use by Russia, prompting Zelenskyy to call for increased Western support.

(With inputs from agencies.)